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Explore ICC's work in anti-corruption, integrity, corporate reporting, and human rights. Learn how our Commission promotes transparency and ethical practices, develops global policies, and provides tools to help businesses navigate compliance and uphold human rights standards. Anti-corruption, Integrity, Corporate reporting & Human Rights Free and fair competition, transparency, respect and compliance with the rule of law are a reflection of an efficiently functioning global economy. Discover the Commission's Key Initiatives The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) stands at the forefront of empowering businesses to operate with the highest standards of responsibility and ethics. Through an extensive suite of resources and tools, ICC is committed to assisting companies in enhancing their corporate conduct and practices. At the heart of this mission lies the ICC Commission on Anti-corruption, Integrity, Corporate Reporting, and Human Rights. This pivotal commission is formulating policy recommendations and creating actionable tools, all from a comprehensive global business standpoint. Our focus is on fostering corporate accountability, promoting transparency, and leading the charge against corruption. The Commission is a collective of esteemed experts and thought leaders from around the world, all united by a shared dedication to these critical issues. Each member brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, representing businesses that are deeply committed to advancing corporate integrity, ethical governance, and human rights. Anti-corruption & Integrity Discover Corporate Reporting Discover Human Rights Discover Combating Corruption Corruption represents a significant barrier to integrity in business dealings, eroding fair competition, skewing the allocation of resources, diminishing public trust, and weakening the rule of law. The susceptibility of businesses to corruption varies based on factors such as their size, degree of international activity, and the nature and scope of their operations. At the heart of corporate responsibility and sound governance, combating corruption is becoming a crucial part of companies' policies for managing their operations. Nonetheless, small to medium enterprises (SMEs) often find themselves at a disadvantage, lacking the resources to meet anti-corruption standards fully. The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has long championed the importance of businesses adhering to self-regulated compliance measures. It acknowledges the foundational role that international organizations and national governments play in eradicating corrupt practices, including extortion, solicitation, and bribery. Pioneering the fight against corruption, ICC issued its first set of anti-corruption guidelines in 1977 with the Rules of Conduct to Combat Extortion and Bribery. These rules, regularly updated, align with significant international legal frameworks like the OECD Convention on Combating Bribery of Foreign Public Officials (1997) and the United Nations Convention against Corruption (2003), marking critical advancements in the global effort against corruption. ICC’s suite of anti-corruption resources aims to empower the private sector with training and self-regulation tools, driving forward the global mission to eradicate corruption through practical, action-oriented solutions. ICC Rules on combating corruption 11 December 2023 The ICC Rules on Combating Corruption constitute the cornerstone of ICC's anti-corruption work, serving both as a tool for self-regulation by business and as a roadmap for governments in their efforts to fight extortion and bribery. Publications ICC Anti-corruption Clause 11 November 2016 This ICC Anti-corruption Clause is for companies to include in their agreements, whereby they undertake to comply with the ICC Rules on Combating Corruption or commit to put in place and maintain an anti-corruption compliance programme. The Week of Integrity The Week of Integrity is the annual multi-stakeholder initiative that aims to foster the exchange of knowledge and stimulate the debate on integrity in the workplace and in the boardroom, at all types of organizations. Visit our website Business and Human Rights The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) champions the critical role businesses play in upholding human rights and advocates for meaningful collaboration between governments and the business sector to exchange insights on developing and managing human rights obligations. The Business Imperative for Human Rights Protection Businesses are instrumental in fostering peaceful, inclusive societies, which are at the heart of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By respecting human rights, companies not only align with ethical standards but also contribute significantly to the global mission of achieving these goals. Guiding Businesses Towards Human Rights Compliance The United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights serve as a comprehensive framework outlining the responsibilities of governments and businesses in safeguarding human rights. ICC is committed to facilitating the adoption of these principles by the business community. Numerous ICC member companies have already made strides in ensuring human rights protection by establishing grievance mechanisms for remedy within their operations. The Essential Role of Governments While the business community plays a crucial role in respecting human rights, the foundational responsibility lies with Governments. ICC encourages governments to proactively engage with businesses, leveraging the sector's valuable experiences in implementing human rights commitments. This collaborative approach is key to enhancing the effectiveness of human rights protection globally. Discover the initiatives to galvanize both businesses and governments towards the advancement of Human Rights. ICC initiatives for Human Rights Corporate Reporting In an increasingly regulated world, companies are confronted with the daunting task of navigating through a complex maze of new regulations. These emerging standards worldwide not only place a significant burden of proof on businesses regarding their reporting practices but also have profound financial implications. The intricacies of compliance are further compounded by the imperative to maintain a level playing field both within the European Union (EU) and in the broader global market. Successfully managing these challenges is essential for companies aiming to preserve their competitive edge and uphold their integrity in the international arena. The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) stands at the forefront of global business representation, advocating tirelessly to ensure that the voice of business is heard and that the conditions necessary for businesses to thrive and engage in international trade are maintained. ICC is dedicated to developing tools and resources that assist companies in refining their corporate reporting and operational strategies to meet these evolving challenges. Recognizing the critical link between responsible business conduct and corporate success, more businesses are integrating principles of transparency, ethics, and risk management into their governance frameworks. These practices are pivotal not only for effective management but also for bolstering a company's reputation and securing its long-term financial prosperity. Four ICC leaders will be co-leading task forces of the B20 group, the platform for the international business community to support the work of the G20 process organised under the stewardship of host country Brazil this year. ICC to guide business priorities for G20

< Back < Previous | Next > Highlights from the Week of Integrity 2025 1 Nov 2025 The Week of Integrity 2025 brought together organizations across sectors to explore how integrity strengthens culture, trust, and sustainable growth. From the launch of the new Book of Integrity to inspiring partner initiatives and thought-provoking dialogues, the week proved that integrity is a year-round capability, not just a one-week commitment. Integrity & Culture: Highlights from the Week of Integrity 2025 From 27 to 31 October, organizations across the Netherlands and beyond came together for the Week of Integrity 2025 , a week dedicated to reflection, dialogue, and action on how integrity strengthens culture, trust, and long-term business resilience. Opening: Integrity as a cultural foundation The week opened with a clear message: integrity is the cultural foundation for resilient institutions. Speakers Mirjam Bakker-Vergouw and Lousewies van der Laan highlighted the urgency of restoring trust in a polarized world. Prof. Dr. Muel Kaptein delivered an interactive keynote introducing a practical framework for measuring and managing ethical culture, setting the tone for a week focused on how integrity sustains open, just, and sustainable societies. The week also marked the launch of the seventh edition of the Book of Integrity , “Culture of Integrity” , featuring essays from business leaders and experts on how ethical culture underpins sustainable growth. The book set the tone for the discussions that followed: integrity is not just a principle, but a practice that defines how organizations lead, decide, and grow responsibly. Partner Spotlight The Week of Integrity thrives thanks to its many partners, whose creativity and engagement brought the theme to life across sectors and industries: KPMG published a five-part blog series inspired by Prof. Kaptein’s keynote, each day exploring a dimension of ethical culture—from the value of integrity and the balance between hard and soft controls, to preventing ethical complacency. Forvis Mazars launched a daily blog series analyzing corruption risks through 99 FCPA cases , covering topics like kickbacks, nepotism, shell companies, and self-reporting—concluding with a practical self-scan for organizations. Kickbacks en fictieve facturatie: zo herkent u het in de praktijk - Forvis Mazars - Nederland NIBC Bank released its updated Code of Conduct , hosted an engaging internal event with CEO Nick Jue and guest speaker Prof. Marjan Olfers , and reinforced its Speak Up culture with interactive role-plays and manager-led initiatives. Damen , in collaboration with Van Oord and SBM Offshore , organized a Compliance Champion spotlight, an open Compliance Café , and an Industry Roundtable on Culture , encouraging open dialogue and peer learning. On October 27, Geert Vermeulen from De Integriteitscoördinator and Lucianne Verweij , Business Integrity Specialist, hosted a session inviting experts to discuss Whistleblowing Management Systems and related topics such as the benefits of a speak-up culture, the value of effective speak-up mechanisms, and the associated challenges. Marijntje Zweegers , Research and Prevention Coordinator at the Dutch Whistleblowers Authority , provided insights into the role of the Huis voor Klokkenluiders, while Wim Vandekerckhove guided participants through the Speak-Up Self-Assessment (SUSA) online tool. Triple Jump encouraged employees to engage in informal lunch discussions about integrity and sustainability, helping colleagues reflect on how everyday choices shape ethical behavior. They complemented this with an Integrity Quiz and an invitation to read the Book of Integrity , featuring a contribution from their Compliance Manager, Margherita Noto . These initiatives demonstrated how integrity can be embedded across sectors, from finance and infrastructure to professional services and compliance. Seminar: Culture and Integrity in a Shifting World At the seminar “Culture and Integrity in a Shifting World” , participants explored how organizations can uphold integrity amid growing geopolitical and regulatory uncertainty. The session opened with Casper Roerade (Evofenedex) , who outlined how global trade fragmentation and political pressures are reshaping corporate governance and ethical expectations. A panel featuring Christiene Everaars , Tekla Surguladze (Magnum) , Alessandro Fontana (Saipem do Brasil) , and Angeliki Mitropoulou (SBM Offshore) — moderated by Suzanne Kröner-Rosmalen (NautaDutilh) — examined integrity challenges across global supply chains and ESG compliance. Sonia Garcia delivered a compelling keynote on the role of organizational culture and psychological safety, while Mariet de Boer and Twan Hol from the Dutch Whistleblower Authority shared practical tools to foster open, speak-up environments. Closing: Integrity as a capability The week concluded with an inspiring message from global thought leader Brett Hudson : integrity must be more than a value — it must be a capability. Hudson emphasized that ethical failures often result from structural weaknesses rather than individual flaws. He called on leaders to intentionally design systems that enable integrity under pressure and to use technology, including AI, responsibly, as a support for human judgment and values. The Week of Integrity 2025 once again proved that integrity is not only about compliance but about culture, leadership, and courage. Across industries, partners showed how principles can be turned into practice, strengthening trust, resilience, and purpose in an increasingly complex world. Keep the conversation going Integrity is not a one-week theme — it’s a year-round commitment. There are 52 weeks of integrity , and organizations are encouraged to keep the momentum going. If you’re inspired to take action, explore the Week of Integrity Toolbox — a collection of free resources, case studies, and interactive tools that can be used any time of the year to strengthen integrity, spark dialogue, and build ethical cultures within your organization.

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Sign up for ICC arbitration and ADR training in The Hague. Tailored for large firms, with options for in-house teams. External participants may join with a fee. Certificates provided. ICC Arbitration and ADR Training Registration Form As part of our commitment to providing better services and increasing knowledge around ICC Arbitration and DRS, we are pleased to offer our members the opportunity to participate in a training on ICC Arbitration and Alternative Dispute Resolutions. This training will be offered in the Netherlands, free of charge for our members, and conducted by a member of the ICC Dispute Resolution Services. How Does It Work? For Larger Firms : We offer the possibility of organizing in-house training sessions, for groups of 5 to 20 participants to ensure active participation. Up to 3 training sessions can be scheduled in a day, depending on the final agenda. We can tailor the agenda to suit your needs, making it a 1.5 to 3-hour training session. There is also the option to focus on specific aspects of ICC arbitration for a more targeted session. Certificates of attendance will be provided by ICC, allowing lawyers to claim their PO points. To streamline the registration process, please submit this form. Name of Firm Expected Number of Trainees Can the Training be Hosted In-House? * Yes No Type of Training * Introduction to ICC Arbitration Focus Session on Specific Areas of ICC Arbitration Both Select topics you would like to address: * Required Overview of ICC Arbitration Role of the ICC Secretariat Role of the ICC Court Drafting Arbitration Agreements (incl. Scrutiny Process, Expedited Proceedings, Emergency Arbitration, Terms of Reference) Selection of Arbitrators Complex Arbitrations ICC Mediation Dispute Boards Proposed Timing (we will contact you for exact dates, please provide an indicative timeline) * required Preferred Time 08:00 AM 08:30 AM 09:00 AM 09:30 AM 10:00 AM 10:30 AM 11:00 AM 11:30 AM 12:00 PM 12:30 PM 01:00 PM 01:30 PM 02:00 PM 02:30 PM 03:00 PM 03:30 PM 04:00 PM 04:30 PM 05:00 PM 05:30 PM Choose a time Focus Session topics you would like to address: * Required Overview of ICC Arbitration Role of the ICC Secretariat Role of the ICC Court Drafting Arbitration Agreements (incl. Scrutiny Process, Expedited Proceedings, Emergency Arbitration, Terms of Reference) Selection of Arbitrators Complex Arbitrations ICC Mediation Dispute Boards Preferred Time 08:00 AM 08:30 AM 09:00 AM 09:30 AM 10:00 AM 10:30 AM 11:00 AM 11:30 AM 12:00 PM 12:30 PM 01:00 PM 01:30 PM 02:00 PM 02:30 PM 03:00 PM 03:30 PM 04:00 PM 04:30 PM 05:00 PM 05:30 PM Choose a time Contact Information: Additional Notes or Requirements I agree to the terms & conditions View terms of use Submit Thank you for submitting the form. We will contact you soon!

< Back < Previous | Next > Digitalisation The Netherlands Moves on eBL Legislation — But More is Needed for True Trade Digitalisation 15 May 2025 The Dutch government has taken an important first step in the digitalisation of trade by submitting a bill to Parliament that formally recognises the legal validity of electronic bills of lading (eBLs). The Dutch government has taken an important first step in the digitalisation of trade by submitting the draft law Invoering van het elektronisch cognossement to Parliament. If passed, the law will align the Netherlands with early adopters such as France, Germany, and the UK , who have already advanced legislative work on this topic. It draws inspiration from the UNCITRAL Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records (MLETR), but stops short of full implementation. 📄 Read the draft law here The proposal, submitted on 14 May 2025, amends Book 8 of the Dutch Civil Code to give eBLs legal equivalence with their paper counterparts in maritime shipping. A three-year review clause has been included to assess the possibility of extending the law to other types of electronic transport documents. While this is a welcome development, ICC Netherlands and other stakeholders argue that the bill, though important, is too narrow in scope. A forthcoming white paper developed by ICC Netherlands calls for the full adoption of MLETR, not just for eBLs but for all forms of transferable electronic trade documents, including warehouse receipts, promissory notes, and bills of exchange. The reason is simple: partial reform limits impact. As it stands, the bill’s narrow focus creates a fragmented legal framework that risks undermining the efficiency gains digitalisation promises. Without legal clarity for a broader range of trade documents, businesses and financial institutions may hesitate to embrace digital workflows. Moreover, the Netherlands risks falling behind jurisdictions that have already implemented MLETR in full, including Bahrain, Singapore, the Abu Dhabi Global Market, as well as key trading partners like France, Germany, and the UK, who have each taken significant legislative steps toward full adoption. These jurisdictions are increasingly becoming attractive trade hubs for companies seeking a legally certain digital environment. According to a 2023 DCSA survey, eBL adoption stood at just 5% globally—despite broad consensus on the benefits. Legal uncertainty remains a primary barrier, particularly among banks and insurers who rely on negotiable instruments in trade finance. ICC Netherlands’ position is clear: if the Netherlands is serious about becoming a digital trade leader, it must move beyond this single-document approach. Full MLETR adoption would: • Ensure legal clarity across the full lifecycle of trade finance instruments • Enable interoperability with international platforms and legal regimes • Promote efficiency and resilience in supply chains • Reduce costs and carbon emissions by eliminating paper-based processes We welcome the government’s initiative and recognise it as a foundational step. But foundational steps must lead somewhere. A broader, more ambitious legislative trajectory is not only desirable — it is necessary. ICC Netherlands will continue to advocate for full MLETR implementation and invites companies, policymakers, and trade practitioners to join the conversation. The future of trade is digital — and the legal framework must keep up.

< Back < Previous | Next > Orchestrating the back office of the future: why the human factor is becoming the primary vulnerability 25 Mar 2026 As financial institutions digitalise their back offices, fraud is evolving from technical breaches to human manipulation. What does this shift mean for control, governance and risk in increasingly automated environments? Orchestrating the back office of the future: why the human factor is becoming the primary vulnerability As financial institutions continue to digitalise their operations, the back office is undergoing a profound transformation. This was the focus of the “Orchestrating the Back Office of the Future” executive dialogue, which brought together actors from across the banking and trade finance ecosystem to reflect on how automation, data and AI are reshaping back-office functions. Organised in collaboration with Iron Mountain and Conpend, the dialogue explored how institutions can move from fragmented, manual processes towards more integrated and intelligent operations. Within this broader transformation, one question becomes increasingly important: where does risk sit in a digital back office? A paradox: stronger systems, growing losses Financial institutions have invested heavily in securing systems and strengthening controls. Yet global losses from fraud are estimated at around $5 trillion annually , and a significant share of successful attacks involve a human element. This points to a structural paradox. As technical systems become more robust, fraud does not disappear, it adapts . Rather than attempting to break systems, fraudsters increasingly operate within them. From technical “hacks” to social engineering A key shift highlighted in the discussion is the move from technical attacks to social engineering . This does not necessarily involve sophisticated hacking. Instead, it relies on: impersonation, manipulation of trust, and the creation of urgency or pressure to trigger action. In such scenarios, processes are followed correctly. Transactions are approved. Systems function as designed. The difference lies in intent. This makes detection significantly more complex. Controls are typically designed to identify incorrect processes, but are less effective when correct processes are used for the wrong purpose . The human factor as the primary entry point As highlighted during the session, between 70% and 90% of successful attacks involve a human element . This shifts the focus from systems to behaviour. Fraud today often emerges in situations where: decisions are taken under time pressure, authority is not challenged, or a request appears credible enough to bypass verification. These are not technical failures. They are organisational and behavioural vulnerabilities . Importantly, this also means that fraud is not always external. Insider actions, mistakes, or misjudgements can play a role, further blurring the line between error and intent. Technology accelerates both sides The increasing use of AI adds another layer to this dynamic. While it offers significant opportunities to improve efficiency and detection, it also enables fraudsters to operate faster, at lower cost, and at greater scale . This creates what can be described as a defender’s dilemma : institutions must continuously adapt, while attackers can rapidly leverage new tools to refine their approach. Rethinking control in a digital back office These developments suggest that strengthening systems alone will not be sufficient. As back-office functions become more digital, the main vulnerability is no longer the technology itself, but the interaction between people, processes and systems . This requires a shift in perspective. Controls must not only verify whether a process is followed, but also consider: whether the context is consistent, whether the request aligns with expected behaviour, and whether individuals feel able, and responsible, to challenge anomalies. In practice, this means integrating the human dimension more explicitly into process design, governance and risk management. A shift in mindset The evolution of financial crime ultimately challenges a fundamental assumption: that trust can be embedded solely in systems and procedures. In an increasingly digital environment, trust must be actively managed, across technology, processes and people. As back offices become more efficient and interconnected, resilience will depend not only on how systems are designed, but on how they are used in practice.

< Back < Previous | Next > Digitalisation Get your business ready for digital trade: meet the ICC Digital Trade Navigator 11 May 2026 With the Netherlands’ new electronic bill of lading law in force, this exclusive ICC member benefit could not be more timely. Join one of the onboarding sessions on 28 May. Get your business ready for digital trade: meet the ICC Digital Trade Navigator With the Netherlands’ new electronic bill of lading law in force, this exclusive ICC member benefit could not be more timely. Join one of the onboarding sessions on 28 May. Digital trade is reshaping how goods, documents and data move across borders. Electronic bills of lading, digital trust frameworks, interoperable standards, evolving legal regimes — the building blocks are coming together quickly. For most businesses, the question is no longer whether digital trade matters, but how to get ready for it without taking a wrong turn. That is exactly what the ICC Digital Trade Navigator is built for. Developed by the ICC Digital Standards Initiative (DSI) together with our national committees, the Industry Advisory Board and the Legal Reform Advisory Board, the Navigator brings the entire landscape of digital trade into one structured, easy-to-use space. Think of it as a Wikipedia for digital trade, ICC style, and it is reserved exclusively for ICC members. Following our recent national committee briefings, we are inviting you to one of two onboarding sessions on 28 May, where we will walk through the platform live and show you how to put it to work in practice. A Dutch milestone for digital trade On 22 April 2026, the Netherlands took a defining step into the digital trade era. The Act amending Book 8 of the Burgerlijk Wetboek to introduce the electronic bill of lading (elektronisch cognossement) was published in Staatsblad 2026, no. 86, placing the eBL on equal legal footing with its paper counterpart under Dutch law. It is a foundational change that opens the door to fully digital sea-freight transactions involving Dutch parties. For Dutch exporters, importers, banks, freight forwarders and in-house legal teams, the question shifts from “is this allowed?” to “how do we actually do it?”. That is precisely where the Navigator comes in. The legal foundation is necessary, but it is not sufficient on its own: companies still need to understand the standards that make eBLs interoperable across counterparties, the trust frameworks that prove a document is authentic, the data behind the documents, and how all of this connects to trade finance. The Navigator brings those pieces together so Dutch businesses can move from legal possibility to operational reality with confidence. Read the law: Staatsblad 2026, 86. A single home for digital trade knowledge The Navigator (previously referred to as the “Sandbox”) has evolved into something far more useful for the membership. It pulls together the best of DSI’s guidance, ICC standards and the practical tools developed with our partners, organising them into a clear A-to-Z pathway. Whether you are stepping into digital trade for the first time or have been following developments for years, the Navigator helps them see how the concepts, legal frameworks, standards, documents, data, trust and interoperability, and trade finance fit together. At its core, it is a learning and preparation platform. It is designed to help organisations assess their readiness, master the building blocks and ask questions in a safe environment before attempting implementation. Three pillars that work together The learner journey is a self-paced curriculum covering the foundations of digital trade, legal and compliance frameworks, standards, documents and data, trust and interoperability, and trade finance. Each topic includes curated reading, a glossary of unfamiliar terms and an embedded AI assistant that can point a learner to the right module when they have a specific question. Users decide what to skip, what to revisit and how quickly to move; HR teams can track progress and use the platform as a structured capability-building tool for their people. The resource library is the single source of truth — every relevant document, standard, white paper and tool, both from DSI and from trusted partners, made fully searchable by topic and keyword. Practical instruments such as data-mapping tools, interoperability enablement utilities and implementation support all live here. The mentor forum is where members engage directly with the experts who shaped this work. Questions are posted to topic-based threads, and assigned mentors are notified when new questions appear. Because the forum is open and threaded, members benefit from each other’s questions as well as their own as the body of guidance grows over time. Mentors are there to help your people make sense of the harder questions as they arise. Why should you care? The Navigator concentrates years of work, knowledge that you might otherwise pay seasoned consultants to assemble, into a single, structured platform. It is free to ICC members, accessible by company domain name, and designed to scale across teams: trade, legal, compliance, finance, procurement, supply chain, IT and HR. It is crucial to know that this serves as preparation, not theory. Later this year we will activate the matching functionality so member companies can find counterparties, importers with exporters, manufacturers with freight forwarders, banks with corporates, to run real digital trade pilots together. Companies whose teams have completed the learner journey will be ready to engage mentors with the right questions, choose the right pilot platforms and avoid costly missteps. In short, the Navigator gives you a way to build internal capability now, so that when they step into a live pilot, they take that step with confidence. Who is it for? The Navigator is designed for any organisation involved in cross-border trade: large multinationals running global supply chains, mid-sized exporters, SMEs participating in those supply chains, and the financial institutions that support them. Within those organisations, it speaks to a wide audience: operational teams who need to understand standards and documents, finance teams thinking about reconciliation and trade finance, legal teams tracking reform, and senior leaders who want to understand what is coming. Although it is not a certification, member companies who want one should check out the ICC Academy's Certified Digital Trade Specialist course. However, for many learners, completing the Navigator will make passing that test much easier. Join us on 28 May The Navigator goes live this month, and we are running two live onboarding sessions on 28 May to walk you through the platform, explain how registration and member verification work, and answer any questions you have about deploying it inside your member organisations. 28 May, 09:00 CET — register here 28 May, 16:00 CET — register here Both sessions cover the same material, so pick whichever time suits you best. Sessions will be recorded for anyone unable to attend live. We look forward to seeing you there.

< Back < Previous | Next > ICC warns of double taxation risks in latest UN tax talks 19 Dec 2025 As United Nations negotiations on a Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation continue, ICC warns that reforms risk creating new layers of double taxation. Following the latest round of talks in Nairobi, ICC states that expanding taxing rights without mandatory safeguards and relief from double taxation could undermine cross-border investment, strain tax administrations and weaken global growth. Government negotiators gathered mid-November for the third session of the United Nations Intergovernmental Negotiations Committee (INC) on the Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation. Ambition is high: to reshape global tax rules under UN auspices, with a particular eye on fairness and development. For business, however, the direction of travel raises familiar, and serious, questions about certainty, coherence and the risk of double taxation. As the institutional representative of over 45 million companies worldwide, ICC used the Nairobi session to drive home its message. In written submissions to the negotiating workstreams, ICC advocated that without clear safeguards, the Convention could unintentionally undermine cross-border trade and investment rather than support sustainable development. A convention with many moving parts The first week in Nairobi focused on the draft commitments in articles to be included in the Convention itself ( Workstream I ). These articles ranged widely – from fair allocation of taxing rights, the treatment of high-net-worth individuals and sustainable development, to illicit financial flows, tax avoidance and evasion, harmful tax practices, and the prevention and resolution of tax disputes. Double taxation: a severe and unacceptable risk for business For the business community, the most sensitive provision is Article 4 on the ‘fair allocation of taxing rights’. As currently worded, Article 4 asserts broad taxing rights for jurisdictions but offers little guidance on how income should be allocated between them. From a business perspective, this creates a severe and unacceptable risk of double and even multiple taxation – an ambiguity could lead to a regulatory ‘free-for-all’ for jurisdictions. ICC advocated that the Convention must explicitly state the prevention and relief of double taxation as a core non-negotiable objective. Any new source-based taxing rights must be paired with mandatory relief by the residence country, whether through exemptions, tax credits or equivalent measures. Put more simply, if the Convention gives multiple countries the right to tax the very same profits, it must also require relief from double taxation, for instance, through recognition of a tax credit. Otherwise, if the same profits are taxed more than once, it will no longer be economically viable for companies to operate in more than one country. This ultimately leads to a decrease in investments and job creation, and distress in local supply chains and the overall local economy. Expanding taxing rights without equally strong relief mechanisms would, ICC says, amplify the problem rather than solve it. Closely linked is the question of definitions . ICC stressed the need to align concepts and definitions with existing international usage standards, such as those of the United Nations (UN) and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Fragmented definitions increase compliance costs, strain tax administrations and raise the likelihood of disputes – outcomes that would disproportionately affect developing countries with more limited administrative capacity. Dispute prevention and resolution must be strengthened to safeguard tax certainty. The second week of negotiations turned to Workstream III , covering the latest concept note released by the UN Protocol II on dispute prevention and resolution. The concept note outlines an optional mechanism for the protocol to work, allowing countries to choose from a range of mechanisms, those suitable to their legal, political and institutional contexts. The concept note also included open questions on scope, mechanisms and capacity building. While details remain uncertain, our response is unambiguous. Without credible dispute resolution, tax certainty, cross-border investment and sustainable economic growth are at risk. To enhance tax certainty and reduce the volume of disputes, ICC proposed incorporating new prevention instruments into the Protocol: ‘MAP-Lite’ Framework: a streamlined process that allows tax authorities to cooperate quickly, review cases early and grant temporary tax relief while disagreements are being resolved – giving companies interim certainty and reducing the impact on business. ‘Synthetic’ APAs: Encouraging the possibility of coordinating two unilateral Advance Pricing Arrangements (APAs) to create the certainty equivalent of a bilateral APA, yet with less complexity and delay. Simple Safe Harbours: Introducing simple ‘safe harbours’ – pre-agreed tax rules – for low-risk services and routine distribution margins. Where disputes cannot be avoided, ICC strongly supports reinforcing the effectiveness of the Mutual Agreement Procedure (MAP) – a formal process that allows governments to resolve cross-border tax disputes between themselves – supported by a binding arbitration backstop. Experience from existing treaties suggests that the mere presence of binding arbitration encourages tax authorities to settle cases within MAP, reducing uncertainty for both governments and taxpayers. One notable absence from Nairobi was progress on Workstream II, covering the taxation of cross-border services. No new document was presented, although a fresh proposal is expected ahead of the next session in New York, starting on 2 February 2026. For now, the UN tax process remains very much a work in progress. Whether it delivers a predictable, rules-based framework or a patchwork of competing claims will depend on choices made by negotiators. ICC remains committed to constructive engagement with the INC and to delivering a predictable, rules-based system that benefits the global economy, while supporting developing countries in achieving needed revenues alongside investment confidence.

< Back < Previous | Next > Dispute Resolution Preventing Disputes Before They Arise: Strategic Tools in Investment and Commercial Arbitration Agata Zwolankiewicz, Yulia Levashova 6 May 2026 Preventing Disputes Before They Arise: Strategic Tools in Investment and Commercial Arbitration On 23 March 2026, during Paris Arbitration Week 2026, Dr. Yulia Levashova (Nyenrode Business University) organized a panel discussion “Preventing Disputes Before They Arise: Strategic Tools in Investment and Commercial Arbitration” at White&Case in Paris. The event brought together leading practitioners, academics, and institutional representatives to explore the growing importance of dispute prevention across both commercial and investment arbitration. The session opened with welcome remarks by Ms. Nataliia Tuzheliak (Associate, White&Case), who highlighted the historical roots of dispute prevention within arbitral practice and e mphasized its renewed relevance in today’s climate of geopolitical uncertainty. Dr. Yulia Levashova (Associate Professor, Nyenrode University) introduced the event, noting a persistent gap between the expanding toolkit for dispute prevention and its relatively limited use in practice – a theme that framed both panels. Panel I: Innovative Approaches to Dispute Prevention The first panel moderated by Dr. Yulia Levashova examined emerging tools and strategies designed to prevent disputes before escalation. A central focus was the evolving role of mediation. Ms. Agata Zwolankiewicz (Associate, Addleshaw Goddard / Researcher, KU Leuven) described investment mediation as an underutilized but increasingly recognized mechanism, supported by developments such as the Singapore Convention and new institutional frameworks. While unlikely to replace arbitration, mediation is gaining traction as a complementary tool, particularly for early–stage dispute resolution. Building on this, Mr. Marc Krestin (Partner, Fieldfisher) emphasized the importance of well-drafted multi-tier dispute resolution clauses. He noted that mediation clauses are generally enforceable across European jurisdictions when clearly formulated, and that effective clause design – ensuring structured engagement and clarity – can transform ADR mechanisms from procedural hurdles into genuine dispute prevention tools. From a construction perspective, Nataliia Tuzheliak highlighted the success of dispute adjudication boards (DABs). Drawing on empirical data, she noted that a significant majority of disputes are resolved at the DAB stage, with only a small fraction escalating to arbitration. The presence of technically qualified, standing adjudicators was identified as a key factor in fostering early resolution and maintaining project continuity. Turning to investment arbitration, Prof. Kamalia Mehtiyeva (Professor of Law at the University of Paris-Est Créteil (France), Arbitrator and Counsel) explored the emerging role of counterclaims as a potential dispute prevention mechanism. Although empirical evidence remains limited, she argued that the growing acceptance of counterclaims – particularly in treaty–based arbitration, may influence investor behaviour and encourage earlier settlements by recalibrating risk assessments. Institutional perspectives were provided by Dr. Hélène van Lith (Secretary to the ICC Commission on Arbitration & ADR, ICC Dispute Resolution Services and Associate Professor, University Paris Dauphine), who outlined the International Chamber of Commerce’s expanding suite of ADR services. She noted a clear trend towards combining mechanisms, such as mediation, expert determination, and dispute boards – in flexible, hybrid processes tailored to parties’ needs. Increased user awareness and demand for “dispute avoidance” tools were identified as key drivers of this shift. Panel II: Regional Perspectives on Dispute Prevention in Investment and Commercial Arbitration The second panel, moderated by Ms. Anna Guillard Sazhko (Independent Counsel and Arbitrator, Turkic Arbitration Association), examined how dispute prevention mechanisms are being developed and implemented across different regions, highlighting both common trends and jurisdiction – specific approaches. Focusing on Latin America, Mr. Eric Franco (Partner, Legal Delta) emphasized that most disagreements are in fact resolved amicably, and that effective dispute prevention requires keeping parties actively engaged and in control of their disputes, rather than delegating entirely to external counsel. He further highlighted that disputes stem from uncertainty, and can often be prevented through early clarification of risks and issues -particularly via tools such as risk management, proactive dispute boards, and fostering trust and open communication between the parties. Providing an institutional perspective from Kazakhstan, Mr. Christopher Campbell-Holt (Registrar and Chief Executive of the AIFC Court and IAC, AIFC Court and IAC) presented the model of the AIFC Court and IAC as an example of integrated dispute prevention and resolution. He highlighted how accessible procedures, proactive case management, and transparency contribute to building user trust. Addressing Central Asia more broadly, Dr. Saltanat Imanova (American University of Central Asia) outlined ongoing institutional innovations and a gradual shift toward formalized ADR frameworks aligned with international standards. She emphasized the importance of capacity building, legal education, and regional cooperation in strengthening dispute prevention practices. Finally, Ms. Diana Bayzakova (Director, Tashkent International Arbitration Centre) shared insights from Uzbekistan’s Tashkent International Arbitration Centre, highlighting recent legal reforms and institutional efforts aimed at improving the investment climate. She stressed that effective dispute prevention depends not only on modern legal frameworks but also on sustained governmental support and institutional credibility. The event concluded with reflections by Ms. Laure Jacquier (Director of ICC Netherlands), who underscored the importance of continued innovation and collaboration between practitioners, institutions, and states to ensure that dispute prevention becomes an integral part of arbitration practice.

< Back < Previous | Next > DRS ICC arbitration tops global survey 12 Jun 2025 The Arbitration Rules of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) have been named the world’s preferred arbitration rules in a global survey investigating current trends in user preferences and perceptions. Conducted by Queen Mary University in partnership with White & Case, the 2025 International Arbitration Survey results state: “The ICC Arbitration Rules are highly regarded, with many interviewees highlighting their established reputation and ease of use for arbitrators and counsel, as well as the support of the Secretariat.” The survey revealed a strong preference among arbitration communities on every continent for the ICC Arbitration Rules , from a choice of more than 60 sets of rules. The ICC Rules took top position in Africa (53%), the Caribbean and Latin America (74%), Europe (60%), the Middle East (59%) and North America (55%), underlining the global character and adaptability of the regulations. In 2024, 831 new cases were filed under the ICC Arbitration Rules, with a total of 2,392 parties from 136 jurisdictions. Claudia Salomon, President of the ICC International Court of Arbitration, said: “We’re delighted that the ICC Court again tops the list of the Queen Mary Study as the most-preferred arbitral institution globally. Our services are built on over 100 years of experience, combined with our continued focus on meeting the evolving needs of the parties. We take this opportunity to thank those who entrust the resolution of their disputes to ICC. Our ranking would not be possible without the exemplary leadership and dedication of the ICC Court members and the Secretariat”. The 2025 International Arbitration Survey investigates current trends in user preferences and perceptions, as well as opportunities to shape the future of international arbitration practice. The 2025 edition is the result of 2,402 questionnaire responses and 117 interviews with a diverse pool of participants. Full survey findings are available on the Queen Mary University London website .

< Back < Previous | Next > ICC launches global policy paper on preventing online and ICT-enabled fraud ICC’s new policy paper highlights the growing scale of online and ICT-enabled fraud and calls for stronger international cooperation, aligned regulation and operational public–private partnerships to protect trust in the digital economy. 17 Mar 2026 ICC launches global policy paper on preventing online and ICT-enabled fraud The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has published a new global policy paper on preventing online and ICT-enabled fraud, highlighting the growing scale of the threat and the urgent need for coordinated international action. As digital technologies continue to transform economies and business models, fraud has evolved in parallel. What were once isolated scams have developed into highly organised, industrial-scale operations run by transnational criminal networks. These groups exploit global connectivity, regulatory fragmentation and increasingly sophisticated technologies, including artificial intelligence, to operate across borders at speed and scale. The consequences extend far beyond financial losses. Online fraud undermines trust in digital services, disrupts legitimate business activity and weakens confidence in cross-border trade and innovation. A systemic and cross-sector challenge The policy paper highlights that online and ICT-enabled fraud is no longer confined to a single sector or type of activity. It spans financial services, telecommunications, digital platforms, e-commerce and cybersecurity, often combining elements of cybercrime, financial fraud and social engineering. At the same time, legitimate businesses are investing heavily in prevention, detection and disruption measures, including advanced authentication tools, AI-driven fraud detection and cross-sector intelligence sharing. However, the report makes clear that no single company, sector or government can address the challenge alone . Structural constraints continue to limit effective action. These include fragmented regulatory frameworks across jurisdictions, operational barriers to cross-border enforcement, unclear or misaligned accountability structures, and the rapid pace of technological change, which is outpacing existing policy approaches. From fragmented responses to coordinated action A central message of the ICC paper is the need to move from fragmented, reactive responses to a more coordinated and proactive global approach. Encouragingly, the paper identifies a growing number of successful initiatives, including cross-industry intelligence-sharing platforms, anti-scam taskforces and technical solutions enabling companies to share fraud indicators such as malicious domains, phone numbers or digital identities. These examples demonstrate the value of collaboration in improving detection and disruption capabilities. However, scaling these efforts requires stronger alignment between governments, industry and law enforcement. Key recommendations for governments and industry The policy paper sets out four priority areas to strengthen the global response: Strengthen cross-border cooperation : Fraud is inherently transnational, requiring more effective international legal frameworks, streamlined data access and joint enforcement efforts targeting organised criminal networks. Invest in prevention : Governments should elevate fraud prevention as a strategic priority, supported by dedicated resources, improved data capabilities and specialised expertise. Reduce regulatory fragmentation : Greater alignment and interoperability across legal frameworks, including consumer protection, cybersecurity and data governance, are essential to enable effective cooperation and reduce uncertainty. Operationalise public–private partnerships : Moving beyond dialogue towards real-time collaboration, including shared intelligence platforms, coordinated operations and joint awareness campaigns. Protecting trust in the digital economy The launch of this policy paper comes at a time when digitalisation is accelerating across all sectors of the economy. Ensuring that digital markets remain secure and trustworthy is therefore not only a matter of enforcement, but also a prerequisite for sustainable economic growth. For businesses, the implications are clear: fraud is no longer a peripheral risk, but a strategic challenge that directly affects operations, reputation and customer trust. ICC’s work in this area aims to ensure that business perspectives are reflected in global policy discussions and that solutions remain practical, scalable and internationally aligned. Ultimately, tackling online and ICT-enabled fraud will require sustained cooperation across borders and sectors, with a shared focus on preventing fraud at its source and strengthening trust in the digital economy.

< Back < Previous | Next > Multilateralism Africa – issues and opportunities relating to trade 1 Jun 2025 In the previous issue of this newsletter we heard that the USA represents just 13% of global trade. In our conversation with Secretary General of ICC United Kingdom Chris Southworth, he said that “we need to focus on the remaining 87% of the global trade system.” With this in mind, we contacted Karima-Catherine Goundian to learn more about Africa’s current and future role in the global trade environment. Karima-Catherine Goundian Can we start off with a definition of Africa's current standing in global trade – looking at both established and emerging sectors? Africa’s position in global trade is still largely defined by raw material exports. For example, oil from Nigeria, cobalt from Democratic Republic of the Congo, and cocoa from Ghana and Cote d'Ivoire. With South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Egypt and Morocco leading in terms of trade volume and influence, there's a growing momentum towards diversification and value addition. Ethiopia is building a textile manufacturing base; Kenya is known for fintech and innovation; Morocco is advancing in automotive and green energy; Rwanda and Ghana are making significant leaps in positioning themselves as innovation and logistics hubs. The narrative about Africa is shifting slowly to being recognised more as a growing frontier. Considering the diversity of this huge continent, is it just too simple to talk about ‘Africa’ as one entity? Africa is 54 countries with multiple economy blocks, diverse political systems, and different languages that are obviously based on the colonial past. It is really critical to avoid oversimplification. In addition, Africa has historically been grouped with the Gulf region to form the MENA region, as if it’s all the same. However, if you are comparing, for example, the business environment of Mauritius to DRC, it’s like comparing Sweden and Brazil. They have nothing to do with each other. I think we really must engage in shifting against that narrative about what Africa is at the regional and national level. With that in mind, how should foreign companies look at working with African businesses? I think it’s important not to look at Africa as a continent, but as an opportunity region; the same way you would if you were to go to Europe. For example, you’re not going to tackle all of the European countries at once; it depends on what you are looking for. Are you looking to manufacture? Are you looking to commercialise? Are you looking for partners and collaborators? Are you doing research and development? What are the most significant challenges facing African trade? Debt relief, climate vulnerability and political instability are all very significant. And I haven’t even started talking about the health hazards. Those challenges all are deep-rooted. What are the solutions to progress? I think that strength will come from collaboration. This is where it gets tricky: this collaboration must be with groups that have Africa’s best interests in mind. Otherwise, it’s going to be a repeat of colonialism, just with different people involved, which is what we are seeing in some places. This is why I believe the next frontier for Africa has to come from within Africa; with new leaders who think differently and understand the challenges; people who are not foresighted, trying to gain for themselves or their immediate family and friends. Do you have any examples of this new style of leadership? A good example happened just a few weeks ago: Guinea’s military-led government revoked the licences of 51 mining companies, citing non-compliance with development obligations and underutilisation of concessions. This spans the bauxite, gold, diamond, graphite and iron mining industries. This sends an important message, it’s a signal that Guinea is really serious about enforcing codes. This kind of stance is very good and very new to Africa, where there is a courage to ask people to abide by rules and hold them to it. How does the energy transition and sustainability align with the development of African trade? Looking at the challenges of the energy transition and sustainability, we’re trying to balance industrial growth with climate goals, which, traditionally, are conflicting. Many African nations have renewable resources – solar, wind and hydroelectric power – but lack the infrastructure to scale them. The other big challenge is financing. If you’re talking about green transition funds, they’re often inefficient or just inaccessible. When I look at the future in this specific area, capacity building and technology transfers are crucial. There are definitely opportunities, for which I think the regional integration of the AfCFTA [African Continental Free Trade Area] is really important. I hope that we can get to a common currency in Africa; this would help a lot in trade within and outside Africa. Let’s turn our attention to ICC's involvement. Does the ICC help? ICC’s role is huge: I see it as a bridge between global vision and local implementation. It can serve as a safeguard and guardrail to provide clarity in trade rules, support arbitration and dispute resolution. And with the right partnerships, ICC can really drive policy advocacy at local government level and shape those trade ecosystems; promoting digital standards for cross-border commerce, for example. ICC can really bring value in helping with ESG reporting, promoting ethical business practices. Procurement reform and capacity building are important as well, specifically when we talk about doing business in Africa, and giving SMEs access to global markets. And how does your work align with the development of companies based in Africa? In my work, I operate a global platform that connects vetted small and medium-sized businesses across markets. This gives me direct insight into the structural barriers they face—from regulatory friction to trust gaps—and into the types of support that actually drive successful partnerships. That perspective shapes how I see the ICC’s role—not just as a policy advocate, but as a practical enabler of high-impact, cross-border collaboration. With a focus on avoiding neo-colonisation, what are emerging African sectors looking for in a trading partner? That’s the million-dollar question. It really is a funnel question – it depends if you’re talking about government, SMEs, or larger groups there. I think what is important is achieving competitiveness. Policies are really important but this will require investment in infrastructure, education and digital connectivity. Those are the three key pieces.