03/12/2023

State of Play 2024 – Immunity and justiciability in international disputes: The limits of inquiry into state conduct

The interrelated doctrines of state immunity and foreign act of state establish limits on the scope of inquiry by courts and tribunals into the conduct of foreign states. The first doctrine is founded in international law whereas the second is a creature of the common law.

While both doctrines have been extensively considered in recent decisions of the highest courts in the UK and Australia, their role in international disputes remains uncertain. This is especially the case where there are potentially different applicable laws, or where a state may have waived its immunity.

The latest instalment of State of Play, the long-running Twenty Essex series of high-profile public international law panel events, features a quintet of speakers who have appeared as counsel in leading recent cases involving both state immunity and foreign act of state. Our panellists will examine these issues and consider future development of the doctrines.

Panellists will draw insights from recent cases including the Venezuelan gold litigation and Spanish renewable energy cases.

Please note that this event is invitation only.

Speakers

• Andrew Fulton KC
• Belinda McRae
• Prof Philippa Webb
• Mark Tushingham

Event details

From 18:00, Tuesday 16 January

The View
38-43 Lincoln’s Inn Fields
London
WC2A 3PE
(map link)