Global Sustainable Development & Trade (GSD&T)

Working Group


Purpose: The Why Behind Our Work

The Global Sustainable Development & Trade Working Group is dedicated to advancing a more equitable and peaceful world by integrating the vital perspectives of women of colour into global discussions on trade and sustainable development. Their unique insights are crucial for shaping policies and practices that foster fair and ethical trade for women of colour, champion sustainable trade practices, and accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), among other key areas. Our purpose is to create a dynamic platform for dialogue, research, and collaborative action, empowering women of colour to lead in building a truly sustainable and just global future.


Scope: Defining our Focus

The Global Sustainable Development & Trade Working Group defines its scope by creating a dedicated space for women of colour to engage in critical discussions and research on the intricate connections between global trade and sustainable development.

Our focus involves rigorous research and analysis across key areas. We delve into Climate Justice and Trade, critically assess Fair and Ethical Trade for Women of Colour, and explore vital areas including the empowering potential of Digital Trade and Economic Empowerment of Women of Colour, Sustainable Finance, Investment, and Trade for Women’s Empowerment, and the intersection of Circular Economy, Waste Trade, and Environmental Justice for Women.

Through the production of insightful pieces and fostering informed dialogue, we aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of these topics and initiate vital conversations that highlight the unique experiences and contributions of women of colour in shaping a more equitable and sustainable global future.

Our current research areas are, but not limited to (TBC):

● Climate Justice and Trade

● Fair and Ethical Trade for Women of Colour

● Digital Trade and Economic Empowerment of Women of Colour

● Sustainable Finance, Investment, and Trade for Women’s Empowerment

● Circular Economy, Waste Trade, and Environmental Justice for Women


Goals/Objectives: Targeted Outcomes

● Cultivate an active network of women of colour for engaging in discussions on global sustainable development and trade.

● Produce impactful written content, including op-eds, policy briefs, and papers.

● Host interviews and panel discussions to discuss critical contemporary issues & topics.

● Increase awareness about the complex issues and key links between topics within the global sustainable development and trade subject area.


Get Involved

We’re looking for reliable, motivated, and detail-oriented people who thrive in collaborative environments and are eager to contribute their diverse perspectives to the growing research in the field of Global Sustainable Development and Trade. If you are passionate about elevating the voices of women of colour in this field, networking with other women interested in the same goals, and creating pieces that aim to contribute to the field, we invite you to join the Global Sustainable Development & Trade Working Group!

We hold monthly team meetings, and ideal candidates can commit 2-5 hours of weekly engagement, including meeting participation, developing deliverables, and performing research. This is an excellent opportunity to collaborate with dedicated professionals, shape important discussions, and contribute to a more equitable and sustainable future. We welcome experienced and emerging leaders, analytical thinkers, and creative minds.

Ready to contribute? We encourage you to express your interest and become a part of our dynamic team.


Latest Developments

SECRETARY (1 position)

  • They will handle the day-to-day admin, logistics and operations of the working group (WG). They are vital for the group's overall functioning/success. It requires someone with strong organisational and communication skills to manage the group’s internal running and ensure the entire group is always updated and in sync. They will directly work with the Chair. The ideal person for this role is organised, with a knack for keeping people on track, and a very good communicator to keep the whole group well informed and working together smoothly.

  • EXTERNAL ENGAGEMENT MANAGER (1 position)

    • They will find and coordinate with external experts for the group. Top candidates are proactive individuals who excel at networking and building relationships with external professionals.

  • FUNDRAISING MANAGER (2 positions)

    • Research and apply for funding opportunities to support the WG's activities. Ideal candidates for this role are proactive self-starters who are organised and skilled at identifying and applying for relevant funding. Anyone with experience in fundraising is highly encouraged to apply. 

  • SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIALIST (1 position)

    • They will develop engaging online content and social media posts for the WG. If you are passionate about our WG subject area and have experience in social media content development, this role will be a great fit.

  • SOCIAL MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER (1 position)

    • They will manage the WG socials. This role is a great fit for someone interested in social media management, with strong attention to detail and communication skills. 

  • INFORMATION RESEARCH SPECIALIST (5 positions)

    • They will provide short updates on important current events. This role is a great fit for those passionate about current events and have a knack for identifying key developments.

  • RESEARCHERS - FOR OUR RESEARCH AREAS (minimum 5)

    • Researchers will conduct in-depth research on specific areas within the WG's subject area. Researchers can select a research area based on their expertise, background and interest. Researchers will work with other researchers in a team to produce info pieces about/within their subject area. Ideal candidates for this role have strong analytical and research skills, as well as experience and a strong interest in their chosen subject area. 

    • If you are interested in any of our research areas, please email us stating the research area of your interest. We are eager to have you on board. Our core research areas are listed above. If you are passionate about another unlisted research area, email our WG leadership team. 

  • WRITERS / CONTRIBUTORS (3 positions)

    • Writers and contributors will create written content for the WG's platforms. They can write about any topic they have expertise in and/or interest in that is within the area of the WG. This role is a great fit for those seeking to enhance their writing skills on topics they are passionate about and have exposure to. 


Publications