Dharmashastra National Law University Inaugurates 1st International Conference on 'Gender Dimensions of Trade' under WTO Chairs Programme
DNLU's 1st International Conference on 'Gender Dimensions of Trade' explores gender equality in global trade.
Jabalpur, India – August 24, 2024 – Dharmashastra National Law University (DNLU), Jabalpur, proudly inaugurated the first International Conference on 'Gender Dimensions of Trade,' held from August 24 to 25, 2024. This pioneering event, organized by the Centre for Studies in International Trade and International Investment Laws (CITIL) at DNLU, is under the auspices of the prestigious WTO Chairs Programme and in collaboration with the World Trade Organization's Gender and Trade Offices, the Centre for Trade and Investment Laws (Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India), and the Centre for International Trade Law at National Law University, Odisha.
Inaugural Ceremony: A Gathering of Legal and Trade Experts
Honoring Distinguished Guests
The conference commenced with an esteemed inaugural ceremony attended by Hon’ble Shri Justice G.S. Ahluwalia, Judge of the High Court of Madhya Pradesh, Prof. (Dr.) Manoj K. Sinha, Vice Chancellor of DNLU, Ms. Anoush der Boghossian, Head of the Trade and Gender Office at the World Trade Organization, and other distinguished dignitaries.
Key Addresses and Highlights
Welcome Address by Vice Chancellor, DNLU
In his welcome address, Prof. (Dr.) Manoj Kumar Sinha expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the distinguished guests and acknowledged the invaluable support from Professor James J. Nedumpara in making this event a reality. Special recognition was given to Ms. Anoush der Boghossian for her dedicated journey from Geneva to attend the conference and to Prof. (Dr.) Sheela Rai for her groundbreaking contributions to the field of trade law, particularly through her recent work, ‘Women & Trade.’
Inaugural Address by Justice G.S. Ahluwalia
Justice Ahluwalia, in his inaugural address, highlighted the transformative power of trade in combating gender discrimination, urging students to embrace the principles of Dharma as a guiding force in their lives. He emphasized the broader implications of trade, beyond mere exchange, as a crucial mechanism for securing financial stability and dignity, particularly for women.
Conference Sessions: Exploring Gender Dimensions in Trade
Expert Panel Discussions
The conference features a compelling lineup of experts in international trade and policy, including Ms. Anoush der Boghossian, Prof. James J. Nedumpara, Dr. Sheela Bhide, Prof. V. G. Hegde, and many other prominent voices in the field. Discussions centered around the critical role of women in trade, the systemic barriers they face, and the necessary steps to promote gender equality within the global trading system.
Key Moment: Unveiling of 'Women & Trade'
Book Launch
A notable highlight of the event was the unveiling of the book titled ‘Women & Trade,’ a collaborative effort that sheds light on the underrepresentation of women in trade and provides key insights for policymakers to foster inclusive trade practices.
Conclusion: A Successful Milestone in Advancing Gender Equality in Trade
Reflecting on the Event's Impact
The event was a resounding success, reflecting DNLU's commitment to fostering academic excellence and advancing the discourse on gender equality in international trade. This conference not only marks a significant milestone for the university but also contributes to the global effort to bridge the gender gap in trade and investment.