The texts and practical guidance that help shape international arbitration, with direct links to their issuing organisations.
These materials have different legal effects. A convention binds states that are parties to it; a model law requires enactment; procedural rules and guidelines apply according to the parties’ agreement, tribunal powers and applicable law. Always check the relevant version and jurisdiction.
Creates a framework for recognising arbitration agreements and recognising and enforcing foreign arbitral awards in contracting states.
It is central to cross-border enforcement; check the relevant state’s declarations and implementing law.
Official UN treaty text ↗ (opens in a new tab)A model legislative framework for international commercial arbitration, including arbitration agreements, tribunal jurisdiction and court assistance.
It informs many national arbitration laws, but takes effect through local enactment, which may differ.
Official UNCITRAL page and text ↗ (opens in a new tab)A set of procedural rules that parties may choose for ad hoc or administered arbitration. The 2021 version incorporates the Expedited Arbitration Rules as an appendix.
The expedited procedure requires the parties’ express agreement; check which version their agreement selects.
Official UNCITRAL page and versions ↗ (opens in a new tab)A framework for documents, witnesses, experts, inspections and evidentiary hearings.
Often adopted or used as guidance alongside procedural rules, particularly where parties come from different legal traditions.
Official IBA PDF ↗ (opens in a new tab)Standards and practical lists addressing arbitrator independence, impartiality and disclosure.
They help parties and tribunals assess potential conflicts, subject to applicable law and procedural rules.
Official IBA PDF ↗ (opens in a new tab)Guidance on the conduct of party representatives in international arbitration.
It addresses matters such as communications, evidence and potential remedies, where agreed or applied by an authorised tribunal.
Official IBA PDF ↗ (opens in a new tab)Practical guidance on the use of artificial intelligence by participants in arbitration.
It helps identify issues around confidentiality, accuracy, fairness and the integrity of the arbitral process.
Official Ciarb PDF ↗ (opens in a new tab)Guidance on third-party funding in arbitration and issues that can arise during proceedings.
It is a practical starting point when considering disclosure, conflicts and procedural implications.
Official Ciarb PDF ↗ (opens in a new tab)Ciarb’s collection covers topics including jurisdiction, interim measures, procedure, evidence and awards.
The official collection helps practitioners find topic-specific guidance and check each document’s edition.
Official Ciarb collection ↗ (opens in a new tab)