From 12 to 14 November 2025, students of the LL.M. in International Dispute Settlement in Geneva (MIDS) embarked on an enriching study trip to Paris, diving deep into the world of international arbitration at two iconic venues: the ICC headquarters and White & Case's offices at Place Vendôme. The program began with two intensive days at the ICC International Court of Arbitration, where students engaged with leading experts and practitioners.
Sessions covered key aspects of ICC arbitration, including:
- Awards and scrutiny - Ziva Filipic
- Emergency arbitrator provisions - Sophie Varenne
- Expedited procedure provisions - Francisco Trebucq
- Financial aspects and costs - Juan Pablo Argentato
Students also participated in practical scenarios led by Alexander Fessas, Secretary General of the ICC Court, gaining hands-on experience in decision-making under real-world conditions. The second part of the trip featured a full day at White & Case, hosted by Michael Polkinghorne, with thought-provoking discussions on:
- Counsel and arbitrator perspectives in ICC arbitration
- The role of States and State entities - Galina Zukova
- Liability in the arbitration system - Emmanuel Jolivet
- The future of the arbitration market - Alexandre Vagenheim, Maria Hauser Morel & Mikael Schinazi
Beyond the classroom, students enjoyed networking opportunities, including a cocktail with alumni and a dinner with renowned practitioners, fostering connections that will last well beyond the program. This trip was more than an academic exercise - it was a window into the evolving landscape of arbitration. Conversations on efficiency, digital transformation, and inclusivity highlighted the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of the field. Preparing our students to lead in this dynamic environment remains central to the MIDS mission.