Okonjo-Iweala Leads WTO Open Day as Geneva Headquarters Marks Historic Milestone

The World Trade Organization (WTO) welcomed members of the public to its headquarters in Geneva for its seventh annual Open Day, transforming the historic Centre William Rappard into a hub of learning, culture and international cooperation as the organization celebrated the building’s 100th anniversary.

The event was officially opened by WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who was joined by Nicolas Walder, a member of the State Council of Geneva, Swiss Ambassador Erwin Bollinger, and Brazilian Ambassador Guilherme de Aguiar Patriota. The dignitaries welcomed visitors and highlighted the importance of the WTO’s role in promoting rules-based global trade while preserving the heritage of the century-old Centre William Rappard.

Speaking after the opening ceremony, Okonjo-Iweala expressed gratitude to the Swiss authorities, diplomats and the many families and visitors who attended the event. She praised the speakers for showcasing the rich history, architectural beauty and international significance of the Centre William Rappard, describing it as a landmark at the heart of International Geneva.

Visitors were given guided tours of the WTO headquarters in English, French and Spanish, allowing them to explore meeting rooms, artwork donated by governments, and the organization’s historic chambers. A special exhibition, jointly organized by the WTO and the International Labour Organization (ILO), traced the 100-year evolution of the building and the international institutions that have occupied it.

The Open Day also featured cultural exhibitions, an international food fair showcasing cuisines from WTO member states, live musical performances, activities for children, and interactive sessions where visitors could experience what it is like to work as a WTO interpreter. Organizers said the event was designed to make the organization’s work more accessible to the public while celebrating the diversity of its global membership.

This year’s celebration carried special significance as it marked the centenary of the Centre William Rappard, the first building in Geneva purpose-built to house an international organization. The WTO said the Open Day reflects its commitment to transparency and public engagement by giving people an opportunity to better understand international trade and the institution’s role in shaping the global economy.