A cross-border dispute is a complex structure. The anatomy of a dispute is a precise dissection of its functional nodes: where the support holds, how the goal is effectively achieved, and at which point the structure experiences maximum tension. The ICC Russia Conference systematically analyses three such nodes.

The first session is devoted to investment arbitration — a mechanism that operates under its own rules and comes into play when commercial mechanisms prove ineffective and the dispute shifts to the realm of investor-state relations. Experts will examine in detail which elements of an investment protection dispute can go awry and how to prevent this from happening.

The second session will feature a debate on where to arbitrate and who would arbitrate, at times when sanctions and the nationality of arbitrators are putting the international arbitration system to the test. Unique statistics on the Lugovoi Law will also be presented during the session.

After lunch, speakers in the third session will explore new avenues for enforcing arbitral awards and explain how to achieve the desired outcome after receiving a long-awaited award.

The event brings together partners from leading law firms, heads of legal departments at major companies, and experts in international disputes.

The Programme:

9:00 – 9:30 Registration, welcome coffee 

9:30 – 11:00 Session I. Investment Arbitration in a Changing World

Investment arbitration is the foundation upon which the protection of foreign investments rests. In this session, experts will discuss what to do when increasing regulatory pressure, changes in international investment agreements, and geopolitical shifts put this foundation to the test.

Key topics to be covered:

- Jurisdiction and admissibility of claims in investment disputes;

- The balance between government regulation and investment protection;

- Proof and calculation of damages;

- Recognition and enforcement of investment arbitration awards in various jurisdictions.

* Speakers to be confirmed

11:00 – 11:30 Coffee break

11:30 – 13:00 Session II. Beef à la Russe: The Battle for Jurisdiction

In the second session, you can expect a thrilling debate on the pros and cons of transferring a dispute to Russian jurisdiction. The session will also feature a presentation of current statistics on the Lugovoi Law. Details — at the conference.

Key points of discussion (points of contention):

- Arbitration remains the most neutral method of resolving disputes with a foreign party;

- The current application of the Lugovoi Law — a blessing or a curse for Russia;

- Whether the “nationalisation” of arbitration or the independence and impartiality of the arbitrator should be assessed based on the circumstances of the specific dispute;

- Lex mercatoria — a solution or a stopgap measure.

* Speakers to be confirmed

1:00 PM – 2:00 PM Lunch 

2:00 PM – 3:30 PM Session III. New Hubs for Enforcement: Key Considerations When Choosing a Jurisdiction for Enforcement

A session on the effectiveness of arbitration. Speakers will discuss how to turn an arbitral award into the actual desired outcome. The session focuses on choosing the path to recognition and enforcement, emerging hubs, and practical strategies.

 Key discussion points:

- New hubs: Which jurisdictions are currently emerging as hubs for recognition and enforcement;

- Navigation: Criteria for selecting a jurisdiction and risk assessment;

- Practical strategies: Case studies from Hong Kong, Uzbekistan, and other jurisdictions.

3:30 PM – 4:00 PM Conclusion of the official program. Networking.

Participation terms:

Free for industry representatives and foreign experts.

For law firms and individual participants — fees and registration are available on the event’s official website: https://iccwbo.ru/anatomy-cross-border-dispute