Rigorous and accomplished counsel, arbitrators, and academics are practicing well beyond the traditional centres of international arbitration. Across Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, and Oceania, large, mid-sized, and boutique firms, alongside solo practitioners, are actively shaping the evolution of international arbitration and public international law in non-traditional venues.

The World Arbitration Update (WAU) brings these voices together, offering the global community a focused and forward-looking update on key and emerging issues in investment arbitration, international commercial arbitration, and public international law through a decentralised forum.

In earlier decades, it was possible to remain current by reviewing a relatively limited number of arbitral awards. That is no longer the case. Of the approximately 3,300 investment treaties in force, 1,138 have already been invoked in arbitration, with 225 awards rendered between 2011 and 2020 alone. At the same time, international commercial arbitration has expanded significantly. Against this backdrop, WAU provides a curated and accessible update on developments that carry both global and regional significance.

WAU panels follow a dynamic and interactive format. Each session begins with a focused presentation outlining the issue at hand, including relevant treaty provisions, customary international law, and key jurisprudence. This is followed by an open discussion among a diverse group of panelists, including practitioners, counsel for investors and States, arbitrators, representatives of international organisations and arbitral institutions, and academics. Each panel concludes with dedicated networking sessions in breakout rooms, allowing participants to engage directly with speakers and fellow attendees.

By connecting regions and perspectives, WAU seeks to decentralise the conversation and broaden participation in international arbitration and public international law. It provides a platform where practitioners, States, private parties, arbitrators, international organisations, academics, and students can exchange ideas, deepen understanding, and contribute to a more connected and informed global community.

On behalf of WAU, its supporting firms and organisations, and its network of experts, speakers, and moderators, we are pleased to welcome the global community to the World Arbitration Update.

WAU Founders,

José Antonio Rivas & Ian A. Laird