Universal ethics for international arbitrators

Abstract

International arbitration serves as a dispute resolution mechanism within the confines of a rapidly evolving landscape of global trade. It is imperative that international arbitrators who will presiding over international arbitration disputes abide to ethical guidelines that are universally recognised. International arbitrators do not have a universal ethical code. There are standards and guidelines that already exist; however, they are not definitive. The existing common ethical standards serve as a foundation for the establishment of a uniform code for international arbitrators. The standards that exist are interpreted and applied differently in various jurisdictions around the world. The recognition of the common ethical standards supports the case for the establishment of a uniform code. The uniform code will mitigate frivolous challenges related to arbitrator conduct, and enhance integrity and trustworthiness of international arbitration as a dispute resolution mechanism.