Short courses for Permanent Missions in Geneva
Organized by the Division on Technology and Logistics, Technology, Innovation and Knowledge Development Branch
Policy Capacity Building Section / P166 Courses
Trade and gender through the lens of UNCTAD
Palais des Nations, Geneva (Room XII)
Friday, 20 Februray 2026 (10:00 to 13:00)

This course provides an introduction to the key links between trade, gender and development, with a focus on international trade and gender-responsive trade policies that support the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly Sustainable Development Goals 5, 8, 9, 10 and 17, and enhance societal resilience in times of crisis. Drawing on analytical work by UNCTAD, empirical evidence and policy examples, the course is aimed at demonstrating how trade can both reduce and reinforce gender inequalities and how policy tools can deliver more inclusive outcomes. At the end of the course, delegates will have gained knowledge of the following:

  • Why the economy is inherently gendered and why gender considerations are essential for sustainable development.
  • Links between trade, gender and development; and why there is no such thing as a gender-neutral economic policy.
  • The identification of key gender gaps in trade across employment, entrepreneurship, digital access, supply chains and access to productive resources, with a particular focus on investment; and their implications for growth and sustainable development.
  • The roles of major international organizations, multinational enterprises and non-governmental organizations in trade, investment and gender; and the distinct analytical and policy approach of UNCTAD.
  • Capacity to engage in negotiations and intergovernmental processes through a gender lens.
Last modified: Thursday, 5 March 2026, 7:48 PM