UNCTAD sessions have provided an opportunity for United Nations Member States to work together to redress economic inequalities in trade, finance, technology and investment. Today, with a global trade slowdown and declines in commodity prices, this issue is again a hot button development issue. But beyond trade, a bigger and more complex set of questions challenges the international community. Vulnerability today derives not only from volatile markets, or from social instability, but also from a fragile global environment weakened by climate change. – said Ban Ki-moon – Secretary General of the United Nations, while opening the UNCTAD14 session in Nairobi, Kenia.

There are worrying signs that people around the world are increasingly unhappy with the state of the global economy. High inequality, stagnant incomes, not enough jobs – especially for youth – and too little cause for optimism stoke legitimate fears for the future for many in all regions. The global trade slowdown and a lack of productive investment have sharpened the deep divides between those who have benefited from globalization, and those who continue to feel left behind. And rather than working to change the economic model for the better, many actual and would-be leaders are instead embracing protectionism and even xenophobia. – added Ban Ki-moon.

The conference also hosted Polish governmental delegation headed by Vice-minister Radosław Domagalski – accompanied by Polish entrepreneurs active in Africa. Małgorzata Bonikowska Ph.D., President of CIR, also took part in the event.