DNLU: International Conference On 'Gender Dimensions Of Trade'

1st International Conference of the Centre for Studies in International Trade and International Investment Laws, Dharmashastra National Law University, on 'Gender Dimensions of Trade', under the aegis of WTO Chairs Programme Inaugurated on 24th August,2024.

Dharmashastra National Law University (DNLU), Jabalpur, successfully hosted its inaugural ceremony for International Conference on the 'Gender Dimensions of Trade' from August 24 to 25, 2024. This significant event was held under the auspices of the WTO Chairs Programme and in collaboration with the Gender and Trade Offices of the World Trade Organization, 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. The conference was organized by the Centre for Studies in International Trade and International Investment Laws (CITIL), DNLU.

The conference was formally inaugurated in the distinguished presence of 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; Prof. James J. Nedumpara, Head and Professor at the Centre for Trade and Investment Law, and Head of the WTO India Chair; Prof. (Dr.) Sheela Rai, Dean and Professor at National Law University, Odisha; Prof. (Dr.) Shailesh N. Hadli, Registrar of DNLU; and Mr. Utkarsh K. Mishra, Director of CITIL.

In his welcome address, Prof. (Dr.) Manoj Kumar Sinha, Vice Chancellor of Dharmashastra National Law University (DNLU), extended his gratitude to the esteemed guests at the conference. He expressed appreciation for the ongoing support and financial assistance provided by Professor James J. Nedumpara in organizing the event. Special recognition was given to Ms. Anoush der Boghossian, who traveled from Geneva to attend, and to Prof. (Dr.) Sheela Rai for her significant contributions to trade law, particularly her work on the book 'Women & Trade.' Prof. Sinha also commended Mr. Utkarsh K. Mishra, Assistant Professor and Director of CITIL, for his dedicated efforts in making the event a success.

Justice G.S. Ahluwalia, in his inaugural address, extended his gratitude to the organizers. He urged students to embrace Dharma in their lives, drawing inspiration from the university's name, 'Dharmashastra.' Justice Ahluwalia emphasized that addressing gender discrimination requires a change in individual mindsets and societal views. He pointed out that trade can be a powerful tool in eliminating discrimination by providing financial stability, which is crucial for a dignified life, especially for women. Justice Ahluwalia further noted that trade is not merely the exchange of goods but has broader implications, necessitating expertise in legal aspects to ensure its success.

During the event, Prof. (Dr.) Sheela Rai delivered a keynote address emphasizing the contributions of women in trade. She highlighted the disparities in participation and the absence of women in positions of power, underscoring the importance of her newly released edited volume on Women and Trade. She pointed out how academic research in this area can uncover critical facts and data that demand the attention of policymakers.

Prof. James J. Nedumpara, in his address, reflected on the societal constructs that perpetuate gender inequality, despite the inherent equality of all individuals. He discussed the role of population dynamics in economic development and the imperative to ensure gender equality. Prof. Nedumpara emphasized the need to empower women to unlock their potential, lamenting that gender should be irrelevant in society but unfortunately remains a significant issue. He stressed the importance of taking action to integrate women into the mainstream economy.

Ms. Anoush der Boghossian also addressed the gathering, speaking on the persistent issue of gender inequality in today's world. She highlighted the evolving scenario and the WTO's ongoing efforts, spanning over eight years, to make trade more inclusive for women. She expressed her belief in the role of trade policy in promoting gender equality and noted that such equality supports trade expansion and exports between countries.

Later in the event, the book titled 'Women & Trade' was unveiled by the dignitaries.

The WTO Chairs Programme, an initiative of the World Trade Organization (WTO), is a pivotal academic effort aimed at advancing research, education, and outreach related to international trade and the WTO's functions. This program seeks to deepen the understanding of global trade issues, particularly in developing countries, and to bridge the gap between academic research and real-world trade policy.

The Centre for Trade and Investment Law (CTIL) was established as a centre of excellence in international trade and investment law and was officially inaugurated in 2016. CTIL represents a significant milestone in India's efforts to strengthen its engagement with the global trading system and to enhance its understanding of international trade and investment laws.

The Centre for International Trade Law at National Law University, Odisha, established in 2015, is primarily focused on research in the field of International Trade Law and International Investment Law, striving to produce high-quality and innovative research.

This conference serves as a vital platform for exploring the intricate relationship between international trade law and women's empowerment. In an era where globalization profoundly influences economic landscapes, it is essential to unravel the complexities surrounding women's participation in trade and its implications for gender equality.

The conference features an impressive lineup of experts in International Trade and Policy, including professionals who have extensively researched gender and trade issues. Among the notable speakers were Ms. Anoush der Boghossian, Head of the Trade and Gender Office, WTO; Dr. Sheela Bhide, Chairperson of the Women Entrepreneurs International Trade and Technology Centre; Prof. V. G. Hegde, Professor at the Centre for International Legal Studies, School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi; Prof. James J. Nedumpara, Head and Professor, Centre for Trade and Investment Law, and Head, WTO India Chair; Prof.(Dr.) Sheela Rai, Dean and Professor, National Law University, Odisha; Ms. Sangeeta Godbole, Former IRS officer, ex-Director General of the Services Export Promotion Council, Government of India Trade Negotiator, and Visiting Faculty at FLAME University; Dr. Neha Pathakji, Associate Professor of Law, NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad; Dr. Sophy K. J., Associate Professor of Law, National Law University, Delhi; Dr. Gargi Chakrabarti, Associate Professor of Law & WIPO Tutor, DNLU, Jabalpur; Dr. Rosmy Joan, Associate Professor of Law, NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad; Mr. Sattwik Shekhar, Assistant Professor and Senior Consultant, Centre for Trade and Investment Law, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India; Ms. Shiny Pradeep, Assistant Professor and Consultant, Centre for Trade and Investment Law, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India; Mr. Abhishek Negi, Assistant Professor of Law, National Law Institute University, Bhopal; and Mr. Vikram Naik, Principal Associate, Khaitan and Co., Mumbai.