Our founding partner Matthias Fekl, who also serves as President of ICC France, delivered the opening remarks at the 4th ICC France Annual Arbitration Conference, held on 13 October, on the theme: “The Future of Arbitration: Evolution or Revolution? French and International Perspectives.”
Following his introduction, participants enjoyed a series of insightful discussions featuring leading figures in the field:
- Claudia Salomon, President of the ICC International Court of Arbitration, in conversation with Marie-Isabelle Delleur (Clifford Chance);
- A panel of experienced practitioners – Marc Henry (FTMS), Laura Fadlallah (Bredin Prat), and Juan Pablo Argentato (ICC) – who offered a detailed analysis of key aspects of the French arbitration reform project, addressing questions raised by Luca De Maria (PMG Avocats), including its potential impact on arbitral institutions, the enhanced role of the juge d’appui, and the composition of arbitral tribunals;
- Finally, Clément Fouchard, Chair of the ICC France Arbitration Commission (Reed Smith LLP), welcomed the constructive nature of the debate, emphasizing that improving efficiency must not come at the expense of the Paris arbitration hub’s global attractiveness in an increasingly competitive environment.