Dr Debapriya addresses LDC Ambassadors to WTO in Geneva

On February 10, 2025, 𝘋𝘳 𝘋𝘦𝘣𝘢𝘱𝘳𝘪𝘺𝘢 𝘉𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘢𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘺𝘢 addressed the Ambassadors and Permanent Representatives of the Least Developed Countries (LDC) at the World Trade Organization (WTO) in Geneva. 𝘋𝘳 𝘋𝘦𝘣, a former Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Bangladesh to the WTO and UN Offices in Geneva and Vienna, spoke on the theme ‘Changing LDC Landscape, Emerging Challenges and Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4)’. He also focused on the evolving global trade environment and the possible strategic outlook for the LDCs.

In his presentation, 𝘋𝘳 𝘋𝘦𝘣 stressed the need to reassess the current LDC graduation framework to ensure a more inclusive and transformative transition. Discussing LDC graduation trends, he noted that eight countries have graduated since 2011, with Bangladesh, Nepal, and Lao PDR set to follow in 2026. However, deep-seated disparities persist among the group, leaving 30 LDCs substantively lagging behind.

He further elaborated on the pressing issues facing LDCs, including internal conflicts, economic stagnation, governance fragility and climate vulnerabilities. Over 70 per cent of these countries are in debt distress, and existing trade agreements often fail to provide tangible benefits. While graduation marks progress, it also exposes LDCs to economic shocks due to the withdrawal of international support measures.

He underscored that while the Doha Programme of Action (2022-2031) aims to mitigate these risks, significant gaps remain in terms of International Support Measures (ISMs). Moreover, he opined that while the FfD4 Zero Draft outlines several provisions for LDCs, effective implementation will require the inclusion of actionable commitments and monitoring frameworks.

Looking ahead, 𝘋𝘳 𝘋𝘦𝘣 called for a reimagined development graduation paradigm that extends beyond the established indicators. He advocated for institutional reforms, enhanced climate resilience, and conflict mitigation strategies. He emphasised the necessity of a tailored support system that ensures LDCs not only achieve graduation but also sustain long-term inclusive growth.

The event was chaired by H.E. Mr Tareq Md Ariful Islam, the Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Bangladesh to the United Nations Office in Geneva. The event was attended, among others, by the Chair of the LDC group in the WTO and Permanent Representative of Djibouti to the UN and WTO H.E. Ms Kadra Ahmed Hassan. Mr Taufiqur Rahman, Director of Trade and Development at the WTO, was also present at the meeting.