ICSID Beyond Treaties: Rethinking Its Role in Contract-Based Disputes

The event titled 'ICSID Beyond Treaties: Rethinking Its Role in Contract-Based Disputes' will take place on February 18, 2026, at Baker Botts in Washington, DC. This panel discussion aims to delve into the increasing significance of the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) beyond traditional treaty arbitration. It will specifically focus on contract-based disputes that involve States and State entities. During the event, expert speakers will analyze why parties opt for ICSID when pursuing contractual claims, highlighting key procedural and strategic implications. The discussion will also address the broader implications of this trend for the future of dispute resolution related to State matters. The panel will feature notable speakers, including Govert Coppens, Legal Counsel at ICSID, Lucinda Low, Founding Member of Low & Kinnear, and Maria Carolina Duran, Special Counsel at Baker Botts, with a moderator to guide the conversation. This event is designed for legal professionals, policymakers, and academics interested in the evolving landscape of international arbitration and dispute resolution, particularly in the context of state-related contractual agreements.