In 2026, the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) marks its 60th anniversary, six decades dedicated to unification, harmonization and modernization of international trade law. Since its establishment by the United Nations General Assembly in December 1966, UNCITRAL has served as a forum in which government representatives and relevant stakeholders from developing and developed countries alike, as well as different legal traditions, can deliberate and reach consensus on key issues of international trade law, devising solutions to overcome significant obstacles to international commerce and promoting sustainable economic development.
UNCITRAL’s 60th anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on UNCITRAL’s achievements, acknowledge the role of Member States and stakeholders, and look ahead to new challenges in the evolving landscape of international trade (see A/80/17, paras. 339-341).
Call for action
Celebrating sixty years of international trade law harmonization
Please joins us in hosting or supporting commemorative activities, ideally between 59th and 60th sessions of UNCITRAL (i.e., from July 2026 to July 2027), to highlight the impact of UNCITRAL texts across different jurisdictions and to reflect on UNCITRAL’s role in the evolving landscape of international trade and its potential future contributions. For further information, please refer to the concept note prepared by the secretariat available here.
Global essay competition
From Foundations to Frontiers: UNCITRAL’s Role in Shaping Tomorrow’s Trade Law
As part of the 60th anniversary, UNCITRAL has launched a global essay competition to engage new perspectives and fresh voices in shaping the future of international trade law. This essay competition offers researchers from all disciplines an opportunity to analyse the social and economic impact of UNCITRAL texts and/or to contribute innovative thinking to UNCITRAL’s next decades of work. For further information, please refer to the call for submission available here.
