26 April 2012: The 13th session of the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD XIII) concluded with the adoption of the Doha Mandate confirming the meeting’s theme of “development-centred globalization: towards inclusive and sustainable growth and development” as a guiding principle for UNCTAD’s work. The meeting also adopted a message to UN Conference on Sustainable Development (UNCSD, or Rio+20) underlining the role of trade for sustainable development and calling for a shift toward greener development paths.

The Doha Mandate states that development-centered globalization sets the stage for inclusive growth and development, and contributes to reducing poverty and creating jobs. It confirms UNCTAD’s role as the UN’s focal point for the integrated treatment of trade and development, as well as for related issues in the areas of finance, technology, investment and sustainable development. It stresses that UNCTAD should contribute to global efforts to transition toward a green economy.

The Conference’s message to Rio+20 states that international trade provides a central vehicle for expanding demand and supply of environmentally-friendly goods and services, and is vital for helping countries shift to greener development paths. It recommends establishing: a Global Trade and Green Economy Forum for evidence-based dialogue on concerns regarding green protectionism; and an initiative to support developing countries in seizing the trade opportunities arising in the context of a green economy.

UNCTAD XIII took place from 21-26 April 2012, in Doha, Qatar. [UNCTAD Press Release – Doha Mandate] [UNCTAD Press Release – Rio+20] [UNCTAD XIII Conference Website]