Topic outline

  • Short Courses

    Short Courses for Geneva-based Diplomats - 2018 series

    The UNCTAD secretariat is pleased to announce another series of short courses in the first semester of 2018 on key international economic issues for delegates from permanent missions to the United Nations Office at Geneva and the World Trade Organization.

    The aim of the courses is to give delegates from permanent missions an opportunity to become better acquainted with topical issues and developments in the international economic agenda as they are reflected in the work of UNCTAD. More detailed information on the content of individual courses may be found in the attached programme.

    In the first semester, three courses will be provided at Palais des Nations on 2 March, 23 March, and 13 April 2018.

    • Friday 2 March 2018, 10 a.m. (Room XXVI) - Assessing the e-trade readiness of the least developed countries for the promotion of sustainable development
    • Friday 13 April 2018, 10 a.m. (Room XXVI) - Assessing the progress of the least developed countries in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals
    • Friday 4 May 2018, 10 a.m. (Room XXVI) - Recent developments in international trade and their implications for the policymaking process


  • 2 March 2018 (Room XXVI) - Assessing the e-trade readiness of the least developed countries for the promotion of sustainable development

    In the changing global marketplace, electronic commerce (e-commerce) is a powerful driver of economic growth, inclusive trade and job creation for all, including in the least developed countries (LDCs). However, while there is significant potential for growth through e-commerce, many people and small and medium-sized enterprises in LDCs are not in a position to use the Internet, in particular broadband, due to a lack of e-commerce infrastructure and other barriers. Therefore, they cannot effectively leverage e-commerce to seize economic opportunities. How to assess the readiness of LDCs to engage in and benefit from e-commerce is crucial for the formulation of relevant strategies and policies to harness its power for economic growth and sustainable development.

  • 13 April (Room XXVI) - Assessing the progress of the least developed countries in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals

    The international community has adopted several development goals specific to LDCs, especially in the context of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development – and its Sustainable Development Goals – and the Programme of Action for the Least Developed Countries for the Decade 2011–2020. Progress towards these goals should be measured to evaluate the adequacy of domestic and international frameworks and policy actions in their pursuit, and possibly consider the need for adjustments in the course of action.

  • 4 May (Room XXVI) - Recent developments in international trade and their implications for the policymaking process

    International trade and the instruments governing it have changed in many ways during the last few years. The purpose of this course is to inform delegates on some of the most important developments in international trade and on the changing use of trade policy instruments.