Courts and Arbitration: Tension, Trust and Transformation

The event 'Courts and Arbitration: Tension, Trust and Transformation' will take place on February 5, 2026, at Georgetown Law's Hart Auditorium in Washington, D.C. This gathering will feature a keynote address by Christopher Thomas KC, focusing on the Alabama Claims Arbitration, a pivotal moment in international dispute resolution. The keynote will delve into how this landmark case was resolved through the Treaty of Washington and the Geneva arbitration, which played a crucial role in preventing a significant crisis between the U.S. and the U.K. Additionally, it will explore the inspiration behind Andrew Carnegie's vision of the 'Temple of Peace' and the establishment of the Peace Palace in The Hague. Following the keynote, a panel discussion will address the dynamic relationship between courts and arbitration. Experts from various backgrounds, including the judiciary, legal counsel, and arbitral tribunals, will share their insights on the current trends and practical implications of this relationship. Attendees can expect to gain valuable knowledge on the support and recognition of arbitration by courts, as well as enforcement issues that arise in this context. This event is designed for legal professionals, scholars, and anyone interested in the intersection of judicial processes and alternative dispute resolution methods.