RESTRICTED  
  
WT/BFA/W/556  
 
7 June 2021  
(21-4641) Page: 1/24 
Committee on Budget, Finance and Administration    
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
WTO 2022 -2023 BUDGET PROPOSAL  
 
 
 
 
  WT/BFA/W/ 556 
 
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TABLE OF CONTENTS  
1   INTRODUCTION BY THE DIRECTOR -GENERAL  ................................ ............................  4 
2   BUDGET PROPOSAL 2022 -2023  ................................ ................................ ..................  5 
2.1   Assessed Contributions for Members  ................................ ................................ .............  7 
2.2   Miscellaneous Income  ................................ ................................ ...............................  10 
3   BUDGET PROPOSAL BY SECTION  ................................ ................................ ..............  11 
3.1   Part A - Staffing Resources  ................................ ................................ ........................  11 
3.1.1    Staff Expenditure  ................................ ................................ ................................ ... 11 
3.1.2    Staff Remuneration  ................................ ................................ ................................  11 
3.1.3    Other Staff Expenditure  ................................ ................................ ..........................  13 
3.1.4    Temporary Assistance  ................................ ................................ ............................  13 
3.1.5    Consulting  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............  14 
3.1.6    Panellists  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..............  14 
3.2   Part B - Other Resources  ................................ ................................ ...........................  15 
3.2.1    General Services  ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 15 
3.2.2    Telecommunications and Post  ................................ ................................ ..................  15 
3.2.3    Contractual Services and Maintenance  ................................ ................................ ...... 15 
3.2.4    Energy and Supplies  ................................ ................................ ..............................  16 
3.2.5    Documentation and Publications  ................................ ................................ ..............  16 
3.2.6    Other/Miscellaneous  ................................ ................................ ...............................  16 
3.2.7    Travel and Hospitality  ................................ ................................ .............................  16 
3.2.8    Implementing Partners  ................................ ................................ ...........................  17 
3.2.9    Capital Expenditure  ................................ ................................ ................................  17 
3.2.10    Financial Expenditure  ................................ ................................ ...........................  18 
3.3   Part C - Operating Funds & ITC  ................................ ................................ ..................  19 
4   BUDGET PROPOSALS BY THEMATIC BUDGETARY AREAS  ................................ ..........  20 
4.1   Technical Assistance  ................................ ................................ ................................ . 20 
4.2   Delivery Unit  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............  21 
4.3   Human Re sources Training Program ................................ ................................ ............  21 
5   BUDGET BY OUTPUT CHAPTER  ................................ ................................ ..................  22 
5.1   2022-2023 Budget Proposals by Output Chapter  ................................ ..........................  22 
6   KEY ORGANIZATIONAL EVOLUTION SINCE 1995  ................................ .....................  23 
6.1   Post Evolution  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........  23 
6.2   Regular Posts per Division  ................................ ................................ .........................  24 
 
TABLES AND FIGURES  
 
TABLE 1 2021 -2023 BUDGET ESTIMATES  ................................ ................................ ........  5 
TABLE 2 SOURCES OF FUNDING FOR THE 2021 -2023 BUDGET  ................................ ........  5 
TABLE 3 2021 -2023 PROPOSED CONSOLIDATED WTO BUDGET  ................................ ...... 6 WT/BFA/W/ 556 
 
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  TABLE 4 SCALE OF CONTRIBUTIONS FOR 2022  ................................ ...............................  7 
TABLE 5 2021 -2023 MISCELLANEOUS INCOME BUDGET  ................................ ................  10 
TABLE 6 SECTION 1: STAFF EXPENDITURE  ................................ ................................ .... 11 
TABLE 7 STAFF REMUNERATION  ................................ ................................ ...................  11 
TABLE 8 STAFF PENSION AND POST -EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS  ................................ ...... 12 
TABLE 9 STAFF HEALTH AND INVALIDITY INSURANCE  ................................ .................  12 
TABLE 10 STAFF FAMILY AND INTERNATIONAL BENEFITS  ................................ ............  12 
TABLE 11 OTHER STAFF EXPENDITURE  ................................ ................................ .........  13 
TABLE 12 SECTION 2: TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE  ................................ ..........................  13 
TABLE 13 SHORT -TERM STAFF  ................................ ................................ ......................  14 
TABLE 14 CONSULTING  ................................ ................................ ................................ . 14 
TABLE 15 PANELLISTS  ................................ ................................ ................................ .. 14 
TABLE 16 SECTION 3: GENERAL SERVICES  ................................ ................................ .... 15 
TABLE 17 SECTION 4: TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY  ................................ ........................  16 
TABLE 18 SECTION 5: IMPLEMENTING PARTNERS  ................................ ........................  17 
TABLE 19 SECTION 6: CAPITAL EXPENDITURE  ................................ ..............................  17 
TABLE 20 SECTION 7: FINANCIAL EXPENDITURE  ................................ ..........................  18 
TABLE 21 SECTION 8: CONTRIBUTIONS TO ITC AND SPECIAL RESERVES  .....................  19 
TABLE 22 TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE RELATED TRAINING COURSES BY EXPENDITURE 
LINE  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..............................  20 
TABLE 23 HUMAN RESOURCES TRAINING BUDGET  ................................ .......................  21 
TABLE 24 BUDGET PROPOSALS 2022 -2023 BY OUTPUT CHAPTER  ................................ . 22 
TABLE 25 POST EVOLUTION 1995 -2023  ................................ ................................ ........  23 
TABLE 26 REGULAR POSTS PER DIVISION  ................................ ................................ .... 24 
 WT/BFA/W/ 556 
 
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  1  INTRODUCTION BY THE DIRECTOR -GENERAL  
1.1.  This is my first budget proposal to Members of the World Trade Organization since I assumed 
office as Director General. I want to thank the Committee on Budget, Finance and Administration  
for the good work it has been doing to move the WTO's budgets forwar d.  
1.2.  We are in the midst of a pandemic, and I recognize the impact that the profound health and 
economic crises have had on Members' economies and public finances. The circumstances demand 
prudence, and that is why I am coming forward with a prudent budget proposal for 2022 -23, one 
that is identical in nominal terms to the previous year's budget.  
1.3.  That said, the CBFA must recognize that the organization's budget has been fixed, in nominal 
terms, for 11 years. This amounts in real terms to a significant contra ction.  
1.4.  This reduction in the WTO's real resources has coincided with a time of rapid changes in the 
global economy, and in the way goods and services are produced and consumed. New challenges 
have come to the fore, above all problems of the global commons like this pandemic and climate 
change. The exclusion of many people, communities, and countries from an adequate share in 
economic growth has fuelled political anger and protectionism. From the digital transformation to 
deepening inequalities, COVID -19 has  accelerated all of these changes. But the pandemic has also 
made clear that complex, cross -border problems with negative spillovers require cooperative, 
multilateral solutions.  
1.5.  These changes have important implications for the multilateral trading system,  the WTO, and 
the way the Secretariat works. Whilst t he WTO has  thus far  played  a significant role  in fostering 
resilience in the global economy, including in this pandemic, by helping to keep international markets 
open to flows of essential goods and food , it is clear it needs to do so much more.  Members must 
work hard to find solutions to the problems of our time. In this regard, it is reasonable to ask whether 
the Secretariat is optimally equipped and structured to support Members to do this. Do we have  the 
skills, procedures, hardware and software we need?  
1.6.  Since taking office, I have been assessing the needs of the organization and its members, and 
have consistently stressed the importance of asking whether we are fit for purpose. I see some 
structural and procedural gaps. As such, we are now bringing in a third party to take an objective 
look at how the Secretariat operates, and whether we are tooled and resourced for the world of the 
2020s and beyond. A competitive procurement process has been run by t he Procurement Unit to 
engage a consulting firm to do this. Nine companies responded, and after a thorough vetting process, 
I am happy to inform you that McKinsey was selected.  
1.7.  As you know, in  April 2021, I establish ed a small  Delivery Unit  to coordinate t he Secretariat's 
efforts to support Members to deliver results before, at, and after the Twelfth Ministerial Conference. 
The Unit is entirely staffed by existing Secretariat officials, and thus far we have not recruited 
externally.  
1.8.  Depending on the extern al review and the recommendations it puts forward, we may need to 
restructure the organization, or make new investments in enabling us to better serve our 
Membership.  I want to alert you that based on the findings of the structural review, I may come 
back at the mid -term review to review the situation with the CBFA, and seek additional resources, 
if necessary.  
1.9.  With this, I call on Members to support and approve the 2022 -2023 budget proposal.  
  WT/BFA/W/ 556 
 
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  2  BUDGET PROPOSAL 2022 -2023  
2.1.  The 2022 -23 budget proposal has bee n prepared in accordance with the Financial Regulations 
of the WTO (WT/L/156/Rev.3), with specific reference to Financial Regulations 5, 6, 7 and 9.  
2.2.  As a continuation from the 2011 budget, the 2022 -2023 proposal reflects a zero nominal 
growth budget. Tabl e 1 shows the composition of the budget, at a high level, separating out the 
amount pertaining to the WTO Secretariat and the amount contributed by the WTO to the regular 
budget of the International Trade Centre (ITC).  
Table 1 2021 -2023 Budget Estimates  
(in thousand Swiss Francs)  
Secretariat  Budget  
2021  Budget  
2022  Budget  
2023  Inc/Dec  
2022  Inc/Dec  
2023  
WTO 178,961  178,961  178,961  0 0 
ITC 18,243  18,243  18,243  0 0 
Grand Total  197,204  197,204  197,204  0 0 
 
2.3.  The proposed financing of the budget amount of CHF 197,203,900, for 2022 and 2023, 
respectively, is as follows:  
a. contributions from Members amounting to CHF 195,500,000; and  
b. miscellaneous income estimated at CHF 1,703,900.  
2.4.  Members' contributions are assessed on the basi s of annually updated trade statistics, in 
accordance with Financial Regulation 12.  
2.5.  Contributions from Members are considered due and payable in full on 1  January of the 
respective budget year.  
2.6.  Table 2 depicts the sources of funding for the budget.  
Table 2 Sources of Funding for the 2021 -2023 Budget  
(in thousand Swiss Francs)  
Income  Budget  
2021  Budget  
2022  Budget  
2023  Inc/Dec 
2022  Inc/Dec 
2023  
Contributions from WTO Members  195,500  195,500  195,500  0 0 
Miscellaneous Income  1,704  1,704  1,704  0 0 
Grand Total  197,204  197,204  197,204  0 0 
2.7.  Table 3 shows the consolidated budget by category of expenditure.   
  WT/BFA/W/ 556 
 
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  Table 3 2021 -2023 Proposed Consolidated WTO Budget  
(in thousand Swiss Francs)  
Part Section  Line 2021  2022  2023  Inc/ 
Dec 
2022  Inc/ 
Dec 
2023  
A Staffing 
Resources  Staff 
Expenditure  i) Staff Remuneration  88,520  88,520  88,520  0 0 
    ii) Staff Pension & 
Post-Employment 
Benefits  23,380  23,430  23,480  50 50 
    iii) Staff Health & 
Invalidity Insurance  6,794  6,794  6,894  0 100 
    iv) Staff Family & 
International Benefits  10,971  10,921  10,871  -50 -50 
    v) Other Staff 
Expenditure  1,900  1,900  1,800  0 -100 
  Temporary 
Assistance  i) Short -Term Staff  9,850  9,850  9,850  0 0 
    ii) Consulting  6,124  6,424  6,724  300 300 
    iii) Panellists  1,300  1,000  1,000  -300 0 
A Staffing Resources Total   148,840  148,840  149,140  0 300 
B Other 
Resources  General 
Services  i) Telecommunication s 
& Post  641 541 541 -100 0 
    ii) Contractual Services 
& Maintenance  11,613  11,613  11,613  0 0 
    iii) Energy & Supplies  2,066  1,966  1,966  -100 0 
    iv) Documentation & 
Publication  1,458  1,458  1,458  0 0 
    v) Other / 
Miscellaneous  48 48 48 0 0 
  Travel & 
Hospitality  i) Travel  7,993  7,693  7,393  -300 -300 
    ii) Hospitality  214 214 214 0 0 
  Implementing 
Partners  i) Implementing 
Partners  213 213 213 0 0 
  Capital 
Expenditure  i) Procurement of Fixed 
Assets  2,255  2,555  2,555  300 0 
    ii) Rental & Leasing of 
Equipment  640 540 540 -100 0 
  Financial 
Expenditure  i) Bank & Interest 
Charges  580 880 880 300 0 
    ii) Building Loan 
Reimbursement  1,200  1,200  1,200  0 0 
B Other Resources Total   28,921  28,921  28,621  0 -300 
C 
Operating 
Funds and 
ITC Contributions 
to ITC & 
Special 
Reserves  i) Contribution to ITC  18,243  18,243  18,243  0 0 
    ii) Appellate Body 
Operating Fund  0 0 0 0 0 
    iii) Ministerial 
Conference Operating 
Fund 600 600 600 0 0 
    iv) Building Renovation 
Fund 600 600 600 0 0 
C Operating Funds and ITC Total   19,443  19,443  19,443  0 0 
Grand Total     197,204  197,204  197,204  0 0 
 
 
 
 WT/BFA/W/ 556 
 
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  2.1  Assessed Contributions for Members  
2.8.  The proposed assessed contributions for Members amount to CHF 195,500,000 for 2022. The 
following scale of contributions has been prepared based on a minimum contribution of 0.015% as 
per Financial Regulation 12.  
Table 4 Scale of Contributions for 202 2 
(in Swiss Francs)  
Member  2021  
Contribution  
CHF 2021  
Contribution  
% 2022  
Contribution  
CHF 2022  
Contribution  
% 
Afghanistan  41,055  0.021%  39,100  0.020%  
Albania  43,010  0.022%  43,010  0.022%  
Angola  326,485  0.167%  273,700  0.140%  
Antigua and Barbuda  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Argentina  692,070  0.354%  670,565  0.343%  
Armenia  41,055  0.021%  43,010  0.022%  
Australia  2,521,950  1.290%  2,525,860  1.292%  
Austria  1,927,630  0.986%  1,927,630  0.986%  
Bahrain, Kingdom of  230,690  0.118%  226,780  0.116%  
Bangladesh  391,000  0.200%  412,505  0.211%  
Barbados  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Belgium  3,587,425  1.835%  3,560,055  1.821%  
Belize  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Benin  31,280  0.016%  31,280  0.016%  
Bolivia, Plurinational State of  99,705  0.051%  93,840  0.048%  
Botswana  68,425  0.035%  62,560  0.032%  
Brazil  2,189,600  1.120%  2,107,490  1.078%  
Brunei Darussalam  54,740  0.028%  50,830  0.026%  
Bulgaria  324,530  0.166%  332,350  0.170%  
Burkina Faso  35,190  0.018%  35,190  0.018%  
Burundi  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Cabo Verde  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Cambodia  140,760  0.072%  158,355  0.081%  
Cameroon  66,470  0.034%  64,515  0.033%  
Canada  4,779,975  2.445%  4,721,325  2.415%  
Central African Republic  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Chad 39,100  0.020%  33,235  0.017%  
Chile 684,250  0.350%  666,655  0.341%  
China  20,419,975  10.445%  20,593,970  10.534%  
Colombia  502,435  0.257%  488,750  0.250%  
Congo  70,380  0.036%  68,425  0.035%  
Costa Rica  162,265  0.083%  166,175  0.085%  
Côte d'Ivoire  107,525  0.055%  107,525  0.055%  
Croatia  232,645  0.119%  240,465  0.123%  
Cuba 121,210  0.062%  113,390  0.058%  
Cyprus  136,850  0.070%  142,715  0.073%  
Czech Republic  1,431,060  0.732%  1,442,790  0.738%  
Democratic Republic of the Congo  119,255  0.061%  121,210  0.062%  
Denmark  1,509,260  0.772%  1,520,990  0.778%  
Djibouti  31,280  0.016%  33,235  0.017%  
Dominica  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Dominican Republic  172,040  0.088%  177,905  0.091%  
Ecuador  213,095  0.109%  205,275  0.105%  
Egypt  496,570  0.254%  502,435  0.257%  
El Salvador  80,155  0.041%  82,110  0.042%  
Estonia  175,950  0.090%  173,995  0.089%  WT/BFA/W/ 556 
 
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  Member  2021  
Contribution  
CHF 2021  
Contribution  
% 2022  
Contribution  
CHF 2022  
Contribution  
% 
Eswatini  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
European Union1 0  0.000%  0  0.000%  
Fiji 29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Finland  850,425  0.435%  844,560  0.432%  
France  7,458,325  3.815%  7,464,190  3.818%  
Gabon  64,515  0.033%  50,830  0.026%  
The Gambia  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Georgia  72,335  0.037%  76,245  0.039%  
Germany  14,031,035  7.177%  13,997,800  7.160%  
Ghana  172,040  0.088%  183,770  0.094%  
Greece  635,375  0.325%  633,420  0.324%  
Grenada  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Guatemala  142,715  0.073%  142,715  0.073%  
Guinea  31,280  0.016%  33,235  0.017%  
Guinea -Bissau  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Guyana  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Haiti 29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Honduras  78,200  0.040%  78,200  0.040%  
Hong Kong, China  5,575,660  2.852%  5,561,975  2.845%  
Hungary  1,024,420  0.524%  1,038,105  0.531%  
Iceland  86,020  0.044%  87,975  0.045%  
India 4,510,185  2.307%  4,574,700  2.340%  
Indonesia  1,657,840  0.848%  1,644,155  0.841%  
Ireland  2,955,960  1.512%  3,362,600  1.720%  
Israel  860,200  0.440%  881,705  0.451%  
Italy 5,034,125  2.575%  4,991,115  2.553%  
Jamaica  52,785  0.027%  52,785  0.027%  
Japan  7,599,085  3.887%  7,487,650  3.830%  
Jordan  164,220  0.084%  162,265  0.083%  
Kazakhstan          461,380  0.236%  435,965  0.223%  
Kenya  123,165  0.063%  125,120  0.064%  
Korea, Republic of  5,577,615  2.853%  5,430,990  2.778%  
Kuwait, the State of  568,905  0.291%  537,625  0.275%  
Kyrgyz Republic  35,190  0.018%  35,190  0.018%  
Lao People's Democratic Republic  52,785  0.027%  56,695  0.029%  
Latvia  164,220  0.084%  164,220  0.084%  
Lesotho  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Liberia  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Liechtenstein  62,560  0.032%  64,515  0.033%  
Lithuania  310,845  0.159%  303,025  0.155%  
Luxembourg  1,018,555  0.521%  1,008,780  0.516%  
Macao, China  256,105  0.131%  252,195  0.129%  
Madagascar  33,235  0.017%  35,190  0.018%  
Malawi  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Malaysia  1,896,350  0.970%  1,859,205  0.951%  
Maldives  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Mali 35,190  0.018%  35,190  0.018%  
Malta  152,490  0.078%  154,445  0.079%  
Mauritania  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Mauritius  54,740  0.028%  54,740  0.028%  
Mexico  3,884,585  1.987%  3,964,740  2.028%  
 
1 The European Union is not subject to contributions. However, its current 27 members are assessed 
individually. The total share of members of the European Union represents 30.68%  of the total assessed 
contributions for 2022.  WT/BFA/W/ 556 
 
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  Member  2021  
Contribution  
CHF 2021  
Contribution  
% 2022  
Contribution  
CHF 2022  
Contribution  
% 
Moldova, Republic of  37,145  0.019%  37,145  0.019%  
Mongolia  56,695  0.029%  60,605  0.031%  
Montenegro  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Morocco  371,450  0.190%  377,315  0.193%  
Mozambique  64,515  0.033%  62,560  0.032%  
Myanmar  134,895  0.069%  138,805  0.071%  
Namibia  48,875  0.025%  46,920  0.024%  
Nepal  56,695  0.029%  60,605  0.031%  
Netherlands  5,741,835  2.937%  5,739,880  2.936%  
New Zealand  467,245  0.239%  467,245  0.239%  
Nicaragua  54,740  0.028%  54,740  0.028%  
Niger  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Nigeria  543,490  0.278%  537,625  0.275%  
North Macedonia  60,605  0.031%  62,560  0.032%  
Norway  1,282,480  0.656%  1,219,920  0.624%  
Oman  342,125  0.175%  322,575  0.165%  
Pakistan  369,495  0.189%  373,405  0.191%  
Panama  242,420  0.124%  236,555  0.121%  
Papua New Guinea  60,605  0.031%  60,605  0.031%  
Paraguay  113,390  0.058%  111,435  0.057%  
Peru 418,370  0.214%  424,235  0.217%  
Philippines  821,100  0.420%  866,065  0.443%  
Poland  2,326,450  1.190%  2,408,560  1.232%  
Portugal  803,505  0.411%  815,235  0.417%  
Qatar  703,800  0.360%  658,835  0.337%  
Romania  766,360  0.392%  801,550  0.410%  
Russian Federation  3,407,565  1.743%  3,235,525  1.655%  
Rwanda  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Saint Kitts and Nevis  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Saint Lucia  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Samoa  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of  2,037,110  1.042%  1,933,495  0.989%  
Senegal  50,830  0.026%  50,830  0.026%  
Seychelles    29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Sierra Leone  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Singapore  4,803,435  2.457%  4,824,940  2.468%  
Slovak Republic  783,955  0.401%  785,910  0.402%  
Slovenia  324,530  0.166%  332,350  0.170%  
Solomon Islands  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
South Africa  905,165  0.463%  879,750  0.450%  
Spain  3,782,925  1.935%  3,792,700  1.940%  
Sri Lanka  187,680  0.096%  189,635  0.097%  
Suriname  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Sweden  2,037,110  1.042%  2,007,785  1.027%  
Switzerland  3,573,740  1.828%  3,681,265  1.883%  
Chinese Taipei  3,165,145  1.619%  3,055,665  1.563%  
Tajikistan  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Tanzania  87,975  0.045%  84,065  0.043%  
Thailand  2,389,010  1.222%  2,420,290  1.238%  
Togo 29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Tonga  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Trinidad and Tobago  97,750  0.050%  87,975  0.045%  
Tunisia  183,770  0.094%  177,905  0.091%  WT/BFA/W/ 556 
 
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  Member  2021  
Contribution  
CHF 2021  
Contribution  
% 2022  
Contribution  
CHF 2022  
Contribution  
% 
Turkey  2,050,795  1.049%  2,003,875  1.025%  
Uganda  54,740  0.028%  56,695  0.029%  
Ukraine  508,300  0.260%  506,345  0.259%  
United Arab Emirates  3,059,575  1.565%  3,032,205  1.551%  
United Kingdom  7,473,965  3.823%  7,380,125  3.775%  
United States of America  22,949,745  11.739%  23,149,155  11.841%  
Uruguay  130,985  0.067%  130,985  0.067%  
Vanuatu  29,325  0.015%  29,325  0.015%  
Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of  559,130  0.286%  488,750  0.250%  
Viet Nam  1,757,545  0.899%  1,941,315  0.993%  
Yemen  78,200  0.040%  72,335  0.037%  
Zambia  80,155  0.041%  76,245  0.039%  
Zimbabwe   50,830  0.026%  50,830  0.026%  
TOTAL  195,500,000  100.000%  195,500,000  100.000%  
 
2.2  Miscellaneous Income  
Table 5 2021 -2023 Miscellaneous Income Budget  
(in thousand Swiss Francs)  
 
2021  2022  2023  Inc/ 
Dec 2022  Inc/ 
Dec 2023  
Contributions of Observer Countries  600 600 600 0 0 
Sale of Publications & Royalties  250 250 250 0 0 
Trust Fund - Participation in Direct Cost 190 190 190 0 0 
Refund of  Prior Year's Expenditure  200 200 200 0 0 
Rental of Meeting Rooms & Office Space 125 125 125 0 0 
Other  339 339 339 0 0 
Total  1,704  1,704  1,704  0 0 
  WT/BFA/W/ 556 
 
- 11 - 
 
  3  BUDGET PROPOSAL BY SECTION  
3.1.  The Budget is divided into the following three parts: Part A - Staffing Resources; Part B - Other 
Resources; and Part C - Operating Funds & the International Trade Centre (ITC). Part C comprises 
the WTO's contribution to the budget of the ITC as well as the allocations for the Ministerial 
Conference Operating Fund and the Building Renovation Fund.  
3.1  Part A - Staffing Resources  
3.2.  Part A of the budget comprises the expenditure for staff funded through the regular budget. 
This includes salary, pension, health insurance, death and invalidity insurance, staff benefits and 
expenditure related to travel on recruit ment or separation, removal and installation. Expenditure for 
short-term staff, consultants and panellists also falls into this part of the budget.  
3.1.1   Staff Expenditure  
Table 6 Section 1: Staff Expenditure  
(in thousand Swiss Francs)  
Section  Line 2021  2022  2023  Inc/ 
Dec 
2022  Inc/ 
Dec 
2023  
1. Staff 
Expenditure  i) Staff Remuneration  88,520  88,520  88,520  0 0 
  ii) Staff Pension & Post -
Employment Benefits  23,380  23,430  23,480  50 50 
  iii) Staff Health & Invalidity 
Insurance  6,794  6,794  6,894  0 100 
  iv) Staff Family & International 
Benefits  10,971  10,921  10,871  -50 -50 
  v) Other Staff Expenditure  1,900  1,900  1,800  0 -100 
Grand Total    131,565  131,565  131,565  0 0 
 
3.1.2   Staff Remuneration  
Table 7 Staff Remuneration  
(in thousand Swiss Francs)  
Line Account Description  2021  2022  2023  Inc/ 
Dec 
2022  Inc/ 
Dec 
2023  
i) Staff 
Remuneration  Staff / Salary  87,983  87,983  87,983  0 0 
  Staff / Annual leave  262 262 262 0 0 
  Staff / Overtime  107 107 107 0 0 
  Staff / Representation 
Allowance  168 168 168 0 0 
Grand Total    88,520  88,520  88,520  0 0 
 
3.3.  Staff Remuneration covers the expenditure for salaries of regular staff as well as overtime paid 
to fixed -term staff and outstanding leave payments at separation from service.   
3.4.  Under Staff Remuneration, no changes are projected for 2022 and 2023. Based on  the 
established salary methodology (WT/GC/M/63) and the provision for the Performance Appraisal 
System (WT/GC/M/80) an allocation is made to bonuses, amounting to 2% of the budgeted base 
salary. A minimum vacancy rate of 38 posts is required in 2022 and 4 0 posts in 2023 in order to 
stay within budget. Several years ago, the structure of the posts at the WTO Secretariat was an 
inverted pyramid. In view of this, a considered approach was put in place whereby higher graded 
staff were replaced by staff on lowe r grades. Savings of up to CHF 500,000 per year have been 
achieved through this systematic replacement. The prospect of further savings is now diminished. 
This budget allocation is to be cross -referenced with paragraph 3.12 under Temporary Assistance.  WT/BFA/W/ 556 
 
- 12 - 
 
  3.1.2.1   Staff Pension and Post -Employment Benefits  
Table 8 Staff Pension and Post -Employment Benefits  
(in thousand Swiss Francs)  
Line Account 
Description  2021  2022  2023  Inc/ 
Dec 
2022  Inc/ 
Dec 
2023  
ii) Staff Pension & Post-
Employment Benefits  Staff / Pension  19,355  19,355  19,355  0 0 
  Staff / Retiree 
Health Insurance  4,025  4,075  4,125  50 50 
Grand Total    23,380  23,430  23,480  50 50 
 
3.5.  Staff Pension and Post -Employment Benefits relates to the WTO's pension contribution for 
regular staff as well as to the health insurance contributions for retired staff. The WTO pension 
contributions amount to 23.7% of the pensionable remuneration. Of this, staff members contribute 
7.9%. The projection is that the WTO health insurance premiums for retirees will increase by 5% in 
2022 and by another 5% in 2023, amounting to an additional CHF 50,000 in 2022 and 2023, 
respectively. The evolution of the health insurance premiums for retirees is driven by projected 
increase s in the  number of retirees  and medical premiums . 
3.1.2.2   Staff Health and Invalidity Insurance  
Table 9 Staff Health and Invalidity Insurance  
(in thousand Swiss Francs)  
Line Account Description  2021  2022  2023  Inc/ 
Dec 
2022  Inc/ 
Dec 
2023  
iii) Staff Health & 
Invalidity Insurance  Staff / Health Insurance  6,297  6,297  6,397  0 100 
  Death and Invalidity 
Insurance  497 497 497 0 0 
Grand Total    6,794  6,794  6,894  0 100 
 
3.6.  Staff Health and Invalidity Insurance relates to the health insurance contributions for fixed -
term staff and their dependents; death and invalidity insurance premiums; and insurance premiums 
for service -incurred accidents.  
3.7.  The projected additional budget allocation amounts to CHF 100,000 for 2023. The amount for 
2022 does no t need to be adjusted due to the lower increase of premiums in 2021 related to the 
pandemic. The increase in allocation also takes into account the filling of vacant posts.  
3.1.2.3   Staff Family and International Benefits  
Table 10 Staff Family and International Benefits  
(in thousand Swiss Francs)  
Line Account Description  2021  2022  2023  Inc/ 
Dec 
2022  Inc/ 
Dec 
2023  
iv) Staff Family & 
International Benefits  Staff / Child Allowance  3,311  3,411  3,411  100 0 
  Staff / Spouse Allowance  1,609  1,509  1,509  -100 0 
  Staff / Secondary 
Dependenc y Allowance  340 340 340 0 0 
  Staff / Education Grant  4,062  4,062  4,062  0 0 
  Staff / Home Leave  1,336  1,286  1,236  -50 -50 
  Staff / Rental Subsidy  314 314 314 0 0 
Grand Total    10,971  10,921  10,871  -50 -50 
 WT/BFA/W/ 556 
 
- 13 - 
 
  3.8.  Staff Family and International Benefits includes  Child Allowances, Spouse Allowances, 
Secondary Dependency Allowances, Rental Subsidy, Home Leave and Education Grant , for eligible 
staff members.  
3.9.  For 2022, an amount of CHF 100,000 has been reallocated from Spouse Allowances to Child 
Allowances as staff profiles have slightly changed. The allocation for Home Leave is adjusted 
downwards by CHF 50,000 in 2022 and another C HF 50,000 in 2023 in order to reflect reduced 
expenditure.  
3.1.3   Other Staff Expenditure  
Table 11 Other Staff Expenditure  
(in thousand Swiss Francs)  
Line 
Account Description  2021  2022  2023  Inc/ 
Dec 
2022  Inc/ 
Dec 
2023  
v) Other Staff 
Expenditure  Staff / Travel and Removal  474 474 424 0 -50 
  Staff / Installation Grant & 
Medical Examinations  285 285 285 0 0 
  Staff / Separation Grant  652 652 602 0 -50 
  Staff / Negotiated Termination 
Indemnity  140 140 140 0 0 
  Staff / Tax Differential  350 350 350 0 0 
Grand Total    1,900  1,900  1,800  0 -100 
 
3.10.   Other Staff Expenditure includes the following elements for eligible staff: installation grant , 
negotiated termination indemnities , separation grants , expenditure for travel and removal at 
appointment and termination and expenditure linked to the different methodologies applied for the 
reimbursement of US taxes to applicable staff.  
3.11.   For 2023, the allocations under Travel and Removal and Separation Grant are revised slightly 
downwards, in order to reflect the expected expenditure.  
3.1.4   Temporary  Assistance  
Table 12 Section 2: Temporary Assistance  
(in thousand Swiss Francs)  
Section  Line 2021  2022  2023  Inc/ 
Dec 
2022  Inc/ 
Dec 
2023  
2. Temporary Assistance  i) Short -Term Staff  9,850  9,850  9,850  0 0 
  ii) Consulting  6,124  6,424  6,724  300 300 
  iii) Panellists  1,300  1,000  1,000  -300 0 
Grand Total    17,275  17,275  17,575  0 300 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 WT/BFA/W/ 556 
 
- 14 - 
 
  3.1.4.1   Short -Term  Staff  
Table 13 Short -term Staff  
(in thousand Swiss Francs)  
Line Account Description  2021  2022  2023  Inc/ 
Dec 
2022  Inc/ 
Dec 
2023  
i) Short -term Staff  Short -term Staff / Salary  2,191  2,191  2,191  0 0 
  Short -term Staff / Pension  725 725 725 0 0 
  Short -term Staff / Health 
Insurance  200 200 200 0 0 
  Translators / Daily and Monthly  2,434  2,434  2,434  0 0 
  Translators / Special Service 
Contract  2,029  2,029  2,029  0 0 
  Interpreters  1,755  1,755  1,755  0 0 
  Interns  516 516 516 0 0 
Grand Total    9,850  9,850  9,850  0 0 
 
3.12.   The budget for Short -term Staff encompasses the gross salary of temporary staff as well as 
related pension and health contributions, untaken leave at termination and overtime. Furthermore, 
translators, interpreters and interns are u nder the same category.  
3.1.5   Consulting  
Table 14 Consulting  
(in thousand Swiss Francs)  
Line Account Description  2021  2022  2023  Inc/ 
Dec 
2022  Inc/ 
Dec 
2023  
ii) Consulting  Consulting Firms & Employment 
Agencies  2,653  2,953  3,253  300 300 
  Special Service Agreements  1,315  1,315  1,315  0 0 
  Translators / External Translator 
Contract s 2,156  2,156  2,156  0 0 
Grand Total    6,124  6,424  6,724  300 300 
 
3.13.   Consulting includes temporary assistance provided by companies such as employment 
agencies and consulting firms, special service agreements with individuals and external translator 
contractors . 
3.14.   The allocation to Consulting Firms & Employment Agencies mainly includes the budget for IT 
consultants, the allocation for the Human Resources Training Program and Technical Assistance 
Related Activities. The allocation for Consulting Firms is increased by CHF 300,000 for 2022 and 
2023, respectively, in order to support consultancies related to the outcomes and recommendations 
from the consultancy on the Structural Review of the Secretariat, amongst others.  
3.15.   The allocation under Special Service Agreements includes individual consultants for 
specialized technical related courses, the Human Resources Training courses, trade & gender and 
knowledge management.  
3.1.6   Panellists  
Table 15 Panellists  
(in thousand Swiss Francs)  
Line Account Description  2021  2022  2023  Inc/Dec 
2022  Inc/Dec 
2023  
iii) Panellists  Panellist s' Fees 1,300  1,000  1,000  -300 0 
Grand Total    1,300  1,000  1,000  -300 0 
 WT/BFA/W/ 556 
 
- 15 - 
 
  3.16.   The budget for Panellists' Fees includes special service agreements with panellists and related 
experts. The allocation for 2022 is reduced by CHF 300,000 due to lower expected expenditure.  
3.2  Part B - Other Resources  
3.17.   Part B of the budget relates to expenditure for General Services, Travel and Hospitality, 
activities jointly funded by the WTO and third parties, as well as Capital and Financial Expenditure.  
3.2.1   General  Services  
Table 16 Section 3: Ge neral Services  
(in thousand Swiss Francs)  
Section  Line Account 
Description  2021  2022  2023  Inc/ 
Dec 
2022  Inc/ 
Dec 
2023  
3. General 
Services  i) 
Telecommunication s 
& Post  Telecommunicat
ions 324 324 324 0 0 
    Post & Freight  317 217 217 -100 0 
  ii) Contractual 
Services & 
Maintenance  Contractual 
Services  7,659  7,659  7,659  0 0 
    Equipment 
Maintenance  2,312  2,312  2,312  0 0 
    Building 
Maintenance  1,433  1,433  1,433  0 0 
    Insurance  194 194 194 0 0 
    Rental of 
Premises  15 15 15 0 0 
  iii) Energy & Supplies  Electricity  570 570 570 0 0 
    Water  54 54 54 0 0 
    Gas & Fuel  461 411 411 -50 0 
    Supplies  981 931 931 -50 0 
  iv) Documentation & 
Publication  Books  15 15 15 0 0 
    Subscriptions  385 385 385 0 0 
    Printing  320 320 320 0 0 
    Publications  438 438 438 0 0 
    Media & Public 
Relations  300 300 300 0 0 
  v) Other / 
Miscellaneous  Membership and 
Registration 
Fees 15 15 15 0 0 
    Advertising  20 20 20 0 0 
    Other / 
Miscellaneous  13 13 13 0 0 
Grand Total      15,826  15,626  15,626  -200 0 
 
3.2.2   Telecommunication s and Post  
3.18.   Telecommunication s and Post includes expenditure relating to fixed and mobile phones and 
postal and freight services. Due to the savings realized under post and freight over previous years, 
the allocation to the 2022 budget has been reduced by CHF 100,000.  
3.2.3   Contractual Servi ces and Maintenance  
3.19.   Contractual Services refers to outsourced service contracts related to buildings, plant and 
equipment  such as  the cleaning contract (CHF  0.9 million), the contract for the outsourced security 
provider (CHF 3.6  million), the contribution  to the International Computing Centre (CHF  2 million) 
and the IT Service Desk (CHF  1.1 million).  WT/BFA/W/ 556 
 
- 16 - 
 
  3.20.   Equipment maintenance refers to all maintenance and repair expenditure that is not related 
to the building  infrastructure  such as IT equipment, security equip ment, conference equipment and 
documents reproduction equipment.  
3.21.   Building maintenance relates to the contracts for the maintenance and servicing of 
installations (maintenance of lifts, cooling units, fire detection systems etc.), various repair work 
such a s painting, flooring, plumbing, the maintenance and servicing of the heating system and the 
electrical installations, and the maintenance of the green spaces within the WTO security perimeter.  
3.22.   Insurance includes all building, vehicle, IT equipment, invento ry and third -party insurance.  
3.23.   Rental of premises, mainly relates to the rental of archives and storage facilities.  
3.2.4   Energy and Supplies  
3.24.   Energy and Supplies includes electricity, gas, fuel, water and supplies for documents 
reproduction, IT and office supplie s. The allocation under Gas and Fuel is reduced by CHF  50,000. 
In addition, the allocation under supplies, mainly relating to documents reproduction supplies, is 
reduced by CHF 50,000.  
3.2.5   Documentation  and Publications  
3.25.   Documentation and Publications relates to the purchase of books, subscriptions to magazines 
and newsfeed, the outsourced printing arrangements for publications, the cost of sales for 
publications and rental of photography and filming services.  
3.2.6   Other/ Miscellaneous  
3.26.   Other/Miscellaneous includes aspects such as advertising for recruitment, membership and 
registration fees for staff training events and other expenditure of a general nature.  
3.2.7   Travel and Hospitality  
Table 17 Section 4 : Travel and Hospitality  
(in thousand Swiss Francs)  
Section  Line Account 
Description  2021  2022  2023  Inc/ 
Dec 
2022  Inc/ 
Dec 
2023  
4. Travel & 
Hospitality  i) Travel  Air & Rail 
Transportation  5,478  5,178  4,878  -300 -300 
    Other Travel 
Related 
Expenditure / Out 
of Pocket  895 895 895 0 0 
    Accommodation / 
Hotel / Meeting 
Facilities  1,400  1,400  1,400  0 0 
    Insurance / 
Participants  220 220 220 0 0 
  ii) 
Hospitality  Hospitality & 
Meeting 
Refreshments  214 214 214 0 0 
Grand Total      8,207  7,907  7,607  -300 -300 
 
3.27.   Travel includes the cost of transportation, per diem and travel insurance for official missions, 
technical missions, trade -related technical assistance, as well as travel related to the 
Human  Resources Training Program, travel  for panellists, recruitment and external auditors.  
3.28.   The allocation under Air & Rail Transportation is reduced by CHF 300,000 in 2022 and in 2023, 
as the allocation for 2021 had been an increase of CHF 600,000 aimed at catching up with technical 
assistance  related training activities which had been hampered by the pandemic in 2020.  WT/BFA/W/ 556 
 
- 17 - 
 
  3.29.   Insurance/Participants relates to the travel insurance for WTO staff on mission  as well as 
participants in trade policy courses.  
3.30.   Hospitality covers the divisional hospitality bud get as well as hospitality related to technical 
assistance training courses and the Human Resources Training Program. The allocation remains 
unchanged.  
3.2.8   Implementing  Partners  
Table 18 Section 5: Implementing Partners  
(in thousand Swiss Francs)  
Section  Line Account 
Description  2021  2022  2023  Inc/ 
Dec 
2022  Inc/ 
Dec 
2023  
5. Implementing 
Partners  i) Implementing 
Partners  Implementing 
Partners  213 213 213 0 0 
Grand Total      213 213 213 0 0 
 
3.31.   Implementing Partners covers activities or events partly or jointly funded by the WTO and 
executed by third -party organizations. Examples are the WTO's contribution to the running costs of 
the International Labour Organization Administrative Trib unal, the International Service for 
Remunerations and Pensions of the Coordinated Organizations , the UN Joint Purchasing Unit, the 
International Organization for Standardization (ISO) for the publishing of the ISO/WTO Directory of 
Standardizing Bodies Acce pting the WTO Code of Good Practice, certain professional networks, the 
WTO Essay Award and the contribution to the WTO Staff Assistance Fund.  
3.2.9   Capital  Expenditure  
Table 19 Section 6: Capital Expenditure  
(in thousand Swiss Francs)  
Section  Line Account 
Description  2021  2022  2023  Inc/ 
Dec 
2022  Inc/ 
Dec 
2023  
6. Capital 
Expenditure  i) Procurement of 
Fixed Assets  Office Furniture and 
Equipment  75 75 75 0 0 
    Computing Hardware  630 630 630 0 0 
    Computing Software  1,100  1,400  1,400  300 0 
    Audio Visual & 
Telecommunications 
Equipment  250 250 250 0 0 
    Security Equipment  180 180 180 0 0 
    Vehicles  20 20 20 0 0 
  ii) Rental & Leasing 
of Equipment  Rental and Leasing of 
Equipment  640 540 540 -100 0 
Grand Total      2,895  3,095  3,095  200 0 
 
3.32.   Capital Expenditure comprises the purchase of audio -visual and telecommunication s 
equipment, computing hardware and software, office furniture and other equipment, security 
equipment, vehicles and reproduction equipment.  
3.33.   The allocation for Computing Software is increased by CHF 300,000 in order to fund the 
increased need for software in various areas of the WTO. The major projects in this area for the 
biennium 2022 -2023 are (i) a new documents management system ;(ii) the en hancement of the 
Documents Online system ; (iii) the continuation of the implementation of a new Human Resources 
Information System ; (iv) a new tender for a software for virtual meetings with interpretation ; and 
(v) the change of hosting for the WTO e -mail system.  
3.34.   With respect to the replacement of the new documents management system, it is recalled 
that the WTO publishes about 150 documents daily and almost all need to be digitally published in 
all three languages. The existing document management system fo r tracking  of all these multilingual WT/BFA/W/ 556 
 
- 18 - 
 
  publishing requests was developed by the WTO over 20 years ago and is due for an overhaul. The 
objective is to implement a workflow system that provides automation, efficiency and transparency 
to all parties. The new sy stem will enable better resource management and document tracking, 
leading to shorter publishing lead times, ensuring that WTO Members can publish their documents 
in a more timely and predictable manner.  
3.35.   Documents Online, together with Documents for Meetin gs and e -Subscriptions are the WTO 
Secretariat's digital tools for the consultation of WTO official documents. Documents Online is the 
main document repository (over 175,000 documents in the three official languages) feeding the 
other tools and several per ipheral systems that have served the WTO Membership well. For instance, 
the Documents for Meetings platform has been used for more than 7000 meetings since 2013; and 
e-Subscriptions has more than 475 delegates registered and, receiving tailored documents, since 
2017.  
3.36.   The current IT infrastructure supporting the Documents Online platform is more than 10 years 
old and is outdated. In 2020, the WTO Secretariat completed an end -user needs analysis that 
included interviews with WTO Members through three separate  focus group meetings. The strongest 
theme surfacing from this exercise was that  the Documents Online platform no longer responds to 
what is expected, namely  a more intuitive search and return of relevant results, particularly for "non-
expert " users of the  system.  
3.37.   Under audio-visual equipment, the gradual replacement of outdated audio -visual 
infrastructure with audio -visual over Internet Protocol solutions will be continued during the 
biennium. This refers to using the computer network rather than using tra ditional audio -visual signal 
transmission. Audio -visual over IP solutions are highly scalable, secure, manageable and they break 
the distance barriers.   The convergence with data and communications will enable new services.  
3.38.   The item Rental and Leasing of Equipment primarily includes the rental of reproduction 
equipment, security equipment for fire protection, photocopiers and other equipment.  
3.39.   With respect to Reproduction Equipment, a study for the replacement of ageing printing 
equipment was undertaken in  2019, resulting in the leasing of a better matched solution to cater for 
the production of huge numbers of print copies of WTO official documentation as well as many visual 
communication projects per year that include publications, brochures, backdrops, p hotos exhibitions, 
portable displays and more.  
3.2.10   Financial Expenditure  
Table 20 Section 7: Financial Expenditure  
(in thousand Swiss Francs)  
Section  Line Account 
Description  2021  2022  2023  Inc/ 
Dec 
2022  Inc/ 
Dec 
2023  
7. Financial 
Expenditure  i) Bank & Interest 
Charges  Bank charges  580 880 880 300 0 
  ii) Building Loan 
Reimbursement  Building Loan 
Reimbursement  1,200  1,200  1,200  0 0 
Grand Total     1,780  2,080  2,080  300 0 
 
3.40.   Financial Expenditure includes bank fees and charges as well as the repayment of the building 
loan. 
3.41.   With respect to bank charges, the negative interest introduced by the banks in 2015 is 
projected to continue  for the next three years. Due to these market conditions, the negotiated 
thresholds with ban ks are very small, and given the duration of the negative interest situation and 
the expansion to the EUR marke t, margins for negotiations are getting smaller and smaller. 
Therefore, the interest charge for 2022 and 2023 is estimated at approximately CHF  880,000, which 
results in an increase of the allocation of CHF 300,000.  
3.42.   The original interest -free building loan from the Swiss Government was CHF 60 million and is 
payable over 50 years , at a rate of CHF 1.2 million per year.  WT/BFA/W/ 556 
 
- 19 - 
 
  3.3  Part C - Operating Funds & ITC  
3.43.   Part C of the WTO budget is related to the contributions to the International Trade Centre, 
the Ministerial Conference Operating Fund and the Building Renovation Fund.  
Table 21 Section 8: Contributions to ITC and Special Reserves  
(in thousand Swiss Francs)  
Section  Line 2021  2022  2023  Inc/ 
Dec 
2022  Inc/ 
Dec 
2023  
8. Contributions to 
ITC & Special 
Reserves  i) Contribution to ITC  18,243  18,243  18,243  0 0 
 (ii) Appellate Body 
Operating Fund  0 0 0 0 0 
  iii) Ministerial Conference 
Operating Fund  600 600 600 0 0 
  iv) Building Renovation 
Fund 600 600 600 0 0 
Grand Total    19,443  19,443  19,443  0 0 
 
3.44.   The allocation to the budget of the International Trade Centre is in accordance with a decision 
taken by the contracting parties on 22  November  1967 (SR.24/14) and Resolution 2297 (XXII) 
adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 12  December  1967, effective 1  January  1968, 
state that the ITC would be operated jointly by UNCTAD and GATT. The WTO has since a ssumed the 
responsibilities of the GATT in this respect (WT/GC/M/3, item 6). Details of the ITC budget proposal 
for 2022 -2023 are prepared by the ITC and considered separately by the Committee on Budget, 
Finance and Administration.  
3.45.   As the ITC is operating under an annual budget, the budget allocation for 2023 might require 
adjustment  during the mid -term review . 
3.46.   The Ministerial Conference Operating Fund was established in 1999 (WT/BFA/44) to even out 
the budget allocation for costs associated with Ministeria l Conferences. The yearly allocation of 
CHF 600,000 has remained unchanged since 2005.  
3.47.   The Building Renovation Fund was established at the end of 2015 in order to provide for the 
renovation costs for buildings and infrastructure over the medium - and long - term.  
  WT/BFA/W/ 556 
 
- 20 - 
 
  4  BUDGET  PROPOSALS BY THEMATIC BUDGETARY AREAS  
4.1.  This part provides an additional view on some main budgetary areas, excluding staff costs for 
regular staff linked to these areas.  
4.1  Technical Assistance  
Table 22 Technical Assistance Related Training Courses by Expenditure Line  
(in thousand Swiss Francs)  
Section  Line Account 
Description  2021  2022  2023  Inc/ 
Dec 
2022  Inc/ 
Dec 
2023  
Temporary 
Assistance  Consulting  Consulting 
Firms & 
Employment 
Agencies  65 65 65 0 0 
    Special 
Service 
Agreements  240 240 240 0 0 
General 
Services  Telecommunication s 
& Post  Post & Freight  47 47 47 0 0 
  Energy & Supplies  Supplies  10 10 10 0 0 
  Documentation & 
Publication  Publications  10 10 10 0 0 
Travel & 
Hospitality  Travel  Air & Rail 
Transportation  2,454  2,154  1,854  -300 -300 
    Other Travel 
Related 
Expenditure / 
Out of Pocket  875 875 875 0 0 
    Accommodatio
n / Hotel / 
Meeting 
Facilities  1,400  1,400  1,400  0 0 
  Hospitality  Hospitality & 
Meeting 
Refreshments  48 48 48 0 0 
Grand Total      5,148  4,848  4,548  -300 -300 
 
4.2.  The Regular Budget dedicated to TA stood at CHF 4.5 million per year during the last 
three  biennia. This amount was increased by CHF 600,000 in 2021 , for a total of CHF 5.1 million, in 
anticipation of an enhanc ed intake of participants in TA activities to compensate for the reduced 
level of TA provided in 2020. This was made possible by the reallocation of funds from other budget 
headers. In 2022, CHF  300,000 less is allocated bringing the total dedicated to TA to CHF 4.8  million 
The total envelope available in 2023 will return to the level that was in place prior to 2021  i.e. 
CHF 4.5 million.  
4.3.  As was the case for the previous TA Plan, the Secretariat will continue with the practice of 
redirecting savings registered on any of the activities during the year to finance other TA 
programmes included in the TA Plan and identified as priorities by Members and Observers.  
4.4.  To preserve the minimum level of flexibility required to make the best possible use of the 
approved budget, the Regular Budget for TA will continue to be grouped in four (4) main areas : 
i. Geneva -based activities for generalists: These will include the Advanced Trade Policy 
Course, the Introductory Trade Policy Course for LDCs, Geneva Week for non -
residents, specific activities for Geneva -based delegates and any other training activity 
held in Geneva.  
ii. Geneva -based thematic activities: These will include activities in the field of dispute 
settlement, the thematic advanced courses held in Geneva and thematic activities for 
LDCs. Some Geneva -based symposia or workshops organized by WTO Committe es in 
relation to aspects of their work may also be financed as part of this envelope.  WT/BFA/W/ 556 
 
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  iii. National activities.  
iv. Miscellaneous: This will include the funding of consultants performing the advisory role 
under Article 27.2 of the Dispute Settlement Understanding and of external consultants 
on the implementation of Results Based Management and e -Learning courses. Some 
outreach activities for non -governmental audiences will also be funded under this 
envelope. Limited funds will be set aside to purchase WTO publicati ons to be donated 
to universities and distributed at outreach events.  
4.2  Delivery Unit  
4.5.  The Delivery Unit was established on 1 April 2021. It is working closely with the Director -
General and with Divisions across the Secretariat to better support Members in t heir efforts to reach 
concrete outcomes, initially for the 12th Ministerial Conference. The Delivery Unit's overarching 
purpose is to foster coherence and greater synergies between Divisions' strong technical expertise 
and policy knowledge on the one hand and the Director -General's priorities and vision on the other 
hand. It will work to ensure that Divisions deepen existing collaboration between them in furtherance 
of the set objectives.  
4.6.   Key areas of immediate focus include working with relevant Divisions  to develop WTO's 
response to the COVID -19 pandemic, fisheries subsidies, dispute settlement, agriculture, 
development including LDCs issues, and devising a more coordinated approach to discussing WTO 
reforms and other issues. CHF 300,000 has been allocate d for consultancies for 2022 and 
CHF 600,000 for 2023.  
4.3  Human Resources Training Program  
Table 23 Human Resources Training Budget  
(in thousand Swiss Francs)  
Section  Line Account Description  2021  2022  2023  Inc/
Dec 
2022  Inc/
Dec 
2023  
Temporary  
Assistance  Consulting  Consulting Firms & 
Employment Agencies  825 825 825 0 0 
    Special Service 
Agreement  250 250 250 0 0 
Temporary Assistance Total    1,075  1,075  1,075  0 0 
Travel &  
Hospitality  Travel  Air & Rail 
Transportation  220 220 220 0 0 
  Hospitality  Hospitality & Meeting 
Refreshments  76 76 76 0 0 
Travel & Hospitality Total     296 296 296 0 0 
Grand Total      1,371  1,371  1,371  0 0 
 
4.7.  Given the depth and breadth of reform that may be undertaken in the Secretariat, the HR 
Learning Service intends to embark on a number of significant projects aimed primarily at addressing 
staff development in the areas of Competencies, Strategy, Organizat ion Values and Leadership. 
External providers will be sought to review the organization's Competency Framework (Generic and 
Managerial Competencies). Based on the revised competencies Development Centres for managers, 
Talent Review and Succession Planning initiatives as well as 360 -Degree Assessments will be 
undertaken.  
4.8.  Development in Strategic Planning and Strategic Foresight will include an understanding of 
Foresight methods such as Horizon Scanning; Megatrends analysis; Scenario Planning, Visioning and 
Back-casting. Foresight consultants will be commissioned to conduct a lecture series; advanced 
cross-organizational workshops, including simulation exercises ; as well as bespoke team -building 
foresight exercises.  
4.9.  Training in Organizational Values will cont inue in 2022 and 2023. Gender -related training will 
be implemented based on the results of the 2021 Gender & Inclusion survey. Videos will be produced 
on scenarios pertaining to Ethics, Diversity & Inclusion and Respect&Harmony@WTO WT/BFA/W/ 556 
 
- 22 - 
 
  (Discrimination, Harassm ent and Abuse of Authority). These video clips will serve to trigger 
discussions during workshops for managers and staff on how to address instances of prohibited 
conduct.  
4.10.   In-house Executive Leadership Programmes, like the pilot 2021 initiative, will continue to be 
facilitated by speakers from accredited tertiary -level institutions from 2022 onwards. Areas of focus 
will include Managing Change & Complexity; Agile Leadership ; and Collective Leadership.   
5  BUDGET BY OUTPUT CHAPTER  
5.1  2022 -2023 Budget Proposa ls by Output Chapter  
5.1.  The 2022 -2023 budget represents the fourth biennium budget presented by Output Chapter.  
5.2.  The expenditure for the eight main Output Chapters is projected as follows:  
Table 24 Budget Proposals 2022 -2023 by Output C hapter  
(in thousand Swiss Francs)  
Output Chapter  
(in kCHF)  Restated 
2021 
Budget  % of  
total 2022  % of 
total  2023  % of total  
1  Facilitating 
Negotiations  9,500  5% 9,500  5% 9,500  5% 
2  Administering Agreed 
WTO Rules  46,500  24% 52,500  27% 53,200  27% 
3  Monitoring Trade 
Policies  28,000  14% 26,000  13% 26,000  13% 
4  Settling Disputes  37,000  19% 32,000  16% 32,000  16% 
5  Capacity building  42,000  21% 42,000  21% 42,000  21% 
6  Assisting Accessions  5,000  3% 5,000  3% 5,000  3% 
7  Conducting Research  15,500  8% 15,500  8% 15,000  8% 
8  Reaching out  13,704  7% 14,704  7% 14,504  7% 
Grand Total  197,204  100%  197,204  100%  197,204  100%  
 
5.3.  The main changes with respect to the Output projection for the biennium 2022 -2023 compare d 
to the projection for the year 2021 are under Output 2 Administering Agreed WTO Rules, Output  3 
Monitoring Trade Policies and Output 4 Settling Disputes.  
5.4.  Output 2 has increased quite significantly over the last two years and needed adjustment. It is 
further increased for 2023, as this is a Ministerial year, where the expenditure under this item is 
traditionally higher.  
5.5.  Output 3 Monitoring Trade Policies has slightly decreased over the last two years, which is 
mainly due to the grouping of some trade policy  reviews and reduced travel expenditure.  
5.6.  Output 4 Settling Disputes has reduced.  
5.7.  All other Outputs are projected to remain at the same levels as 2021.  WT/BFA/W/ 556 
 
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  6  KEY ORGANIZATIONAL EVOLUTION SINCE 1995  
6.1  Post Evolution  
Table 25 Post Evolution 1995 -2023  
Year Total Regular Posts  
1995 445 
1996 513 
1997 513 
1998 513 
1999 533 
2000 539 
2001 552 
2002 560 
2003 590 
2004 608 
2005 608 
2006 635 
2007 637 
2008 639 
2009 639 
2010 641 
2011 645 
2012 648 
2013 645 
2014 645 
2015 645 
2016 645 
2017 645 
2018 645 
2019 645 
2020 645 
2021 645 
2022 645 
2023 645 
 
 
 
   WT/BFA/W/ 556 
 
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  6.2  Regular Posts per Division  
Table 26 Regular Posts Per Division2  
Division  Grades 1 
- 10 Grades 11 
- 12 Senior 
Management  Grand 
Total  
Senior Management incl. Office of Director -
General  18 2 5 25 
Accessions Division  9 1 0 10 
Administration and General Services Division  65 1 0 66 
Agriculture and Commodities Division  18 1 0 19 
Council and TNC Division  13 1 0 14 
Delivery Unit  5 1 0 6 
Development Division  20 1 0 21 
Economic Research and Statistics Division  38 1 0 39 
Human Resources Division  28 1 0 29 
Information and External Relations Division  29 1 0 30 
Information Technology Solutions Division  37 1 0 38 
Institute for Training and Technical Cooperation  29 1 0 30 
Intellectual Property, Government Procurement 
and Competition Division  15 1 0 16 
Knowledge and Information Management, 
Academic Outreach and WTO Chairs Programme  19 1 0 20 
Language and Documentation Services Division  98 1 0 99 
Legal Affairs Division  37 1 0 38 
Market Access Division  21 1 0 22 
Office of Internal Oversight  3 0 0 3 
Rules Division  36 1 0 37 
Trade and Environment Division  15 1 0 16 
Trade Policies Review Division  51 1 0 52 
Trade in Services and Investment Division  15 1 0 16 
Grand Total  619 22 5 646 
 
 
 
__________  
 
2 Posts are rounded to full numbers. This also includes vacant posts.