While there is no universally accepted code on ethical requirements in proceedings before international courts and tribunals, ethical conduct in the "International Bar" is one of the most important issues in contemporary international adjudication. Many international courts (such as the European Court of Human Rights, the International Criminal Court, and the ad-hoc International Criminal Tribunals for the Former Yugoslavia and Rwanda) have adopted rules that regulate the behavior of prosecutors, counsels, and judges. Similarly, several professional associations (such as the International Bar Association, the International Law Association, and the Council of Bars and Law Societies of Europe) have adopted non-binding codes of conduct for litigants and judges. This seminar will focus on the need to uphold the highest ethical standards in international adjudication. In addition, it will identify gaps in the existing documents and mechanisms for the maintenance of professional integrity in the "International Bar" and suggest improvements. The event will be followed by a drinks reception.
Keynote speaker:
- Judge Jean-Pierre Cot, International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea
Discussants:
- Dr. Arman Sarvarian, University of Surrey
- José María Alonso, Baker & McKenzie (Madrid)
Chair:
- Karim Khan QC, Temple Garden Chambers