Summary
This report outlines three significant trends anticipated in international arbitration as we enter 2026. Experts predict that environmental issues will take center stage, influenced by a landmark decision from the International Court of Justice allowing nations to seek reparations for human-caused greenhouse gas emissions. This shift may lead to a surge in investor-state arbitration cases focusing on environmental claims. Additionally, geopolitical uncertainty, particularly related to tariffs and sanctions, is expected to escalate disputes globally. The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine is highlighted as a key area where sanctions are being challenged through arbitration. Finally, the report notes a growing trend in China, where life sciences disputes are increasingly being resolved through arbitration, driven by a post-COVID-19 investment boom in the sector. These developments indicate a complex landscape for international arbitration in the coming year.
