Registration, Coffee & Tea

Welcome Remarks

• Dr. The Hon. Natalio D. Wheatley
• Chair of the Board of the BVI IAC - John Beechey CBE
• Shan Greer

Keynote I: Fintech and Blockchain Trends in the Caribbean

Topic: Crypto Assets Trends

We look at current trends in innovative financial technology, including the increasing use of digital assets by several jurisdictions and the rise in demand for regulation with a focus on the BVI and the wider Caribbean.

Speaker:

• Hon. Lorna G. Smith, OBE, Deputy Premier Of the British Virgin Islands

Panel Discussion: Fintech Regulation and Disputes

Topic: Crypto Assets Disputes

The panel will discuss the latest developments in the law relating to centralised and decentralised crypto asset projects. The discussion will consider what lies ahead for the sector in terms of structure, regulation and risk and how the BVI and wider Caribbean is positioning itself to service this market.

This session will bring together leading experts to discuss fintech trends, innovation in the payments space, and the challenges and opportunities for resolving these disputes by arbitration.

Moderator:

• Elise Donovan, Chief Executive Officer

Speakers:

• Rachel Muldoon, Maitland Chambers
• Guy Williamson, Campbells
• Glenford Malone, BVI Finance
• Nik Yeo,  Fountain Court Chambers

Coffee Break

Facilitated Discussion: Disputes in the Energy Sector

Topic: Understanding the energy landscape.

During this panel discussion, the speakers from states across the world will consider the issues arising from the construction of energy assets and the provision of equipment, including supply chain issues and raw material shortages and the mechanism being used to resolve them with a focus on dispute boards and arbitration.

Moderator:

• Satcha Kissoon, Dentons

Speakers:

• Niccolo Landi, Arbitration Chambers
• Calvin Hamilton, Arbitra International
• Nicola Berry, Berrys Attorneys & Arbitrators
• Arran Dowling Hussey, Gray's Inn Square Chambers

Keynote II: Conflict of Interest between Co-arbitrators

An issue not dealt with at any length in the literature is whether co-arbitrators must disclose close relationships with colleagues on the same tribunal. There is always a duty to make disclosure of matters that on a common sense, objective view, ought to be brought to the attention of the parties. For present purposes, the narrow question for analysis is the extent to which two arbitrators must disclose a close friendship as a matter of law in an international arbitration.

This keynote will consider international norms derived from national laws, arbitral institutions and international arbitral organizations including the IBA, UNCITRAL and the College of Commercial Arbitrators.

Speaker:

• Murray Smith KC, Smiths Barristers

Lunch

Reverse Debate: Conflict of Interest in International Arbitration

Topic:  Is there an obligation to disclose close relationships between co-arbitrators?

Moderator:

Philip W. (Whit) Engle, Private Law Practice

Arbitration Redefined: Young Lawyers, Fresh Solutions

Chartered Institute of (Caribbean Branch) Arbitrators-Young Members Group Event

This dynamic session promises a fresh perspective on arbitration as young legal professionals take the stage to analyze and discuss innovative approaches to contemporary challenges in the field.

Moderator: Shantel Gray, BVI IAC

Keynote:

• Gary Born, International Arbitration Practice Group

Speakers:

• Allana-J Joseph, Conyers
• Theominique Nottage, Government of Bahamas
• Jodi-Ann Stephenson, Bakers and Partners
• Rene Roper, DataPro Consulting Ltd.
• Jermaine Case, George Henry Partners

Governor's House Cocktail Reception - Ticketed Event

Step into an enchanting evening of elegance and sophistication at the Governor’s House Cocktail Reception, a highlight of BVI Arbitration Week. This exclusive event promises an unforgettable experience, blending the finest elements of passed hors d'oeuvres, cocktails, and live entertainment surrounded by the historic charm of BVI Governor’s House.

Dress Code: Semi Formal

Venue: The Governor's House

Coffee & Tea

Session I: Bots or Brains: The AI Dilemma in Arbitration

Conyers

In this topical session, our diverse panel of experts will discuss the increasing use of artificial intelligence in international arbitration, including the numerous opportunities it currently offers and the potential threats it might present.  Each of our speakers will provide thought-provoking analysis and insights into a particular aspect of AI’s role in arbitration, including in the appointment of tribunals, in gathering and evaluating evidence, as an aid to tribunals and cyborg tribunals, as well as the impact of AI on the independence and impartiality of arbitrators.  An interactive discussion will follow with our panellists responding to questions from the audience.

Moderators:

• Mark Forte, Conyers
• Dr Jane Fedotova, Conyers

Speakers:

• Dmitri Evseev, Arbitration City / Arbitra International
• Professor Tania Sourdin, University of Newcastle Law School
• David Blayney KC, Serle Court
• (Amb.) (ret.) David Huebner, Huebner Arbitration

Coffee Break

Session II: The Future of Caribbean Arbitration is Green

Harneys

Join us for a dynamic panel discussion, "The Future of Caribbean Arbitration is Green," as we delve into the intersection of environmental consciousness and dispute resolution. Explore the practicalities of remote arbitration, assessing its impact on carbon footprint reduction. Uncover the unique challenges and opportunities presented by green arbitration in the Caribbean, with a special focus on litigation within energy disputes. Discover how sustainable practices can shape the future of arbitration, fostering a greener, more efficient resolution process. Plus, we take a look ahead to ICCA 2024 Hong Kong.

Moderator:

• Peter Ferrer, Harneys

Speakers:

• Katherine Menéndez de la Cuesta, Harneys
• George Weston, Harneys
• Rebecca James, Linklaters
• Elizabeth Cava, Deloitte
• Conway Blake, Debevoise
• Justice Anthony Gafoor, Chair of CIArb Caribbean Branch

Lunch

Session III: The BVI Court’s Role in Arbitration: Interim Relief, Intervention and Challenging Awards

Brick Court Chambers

The session will focus on BVI law as the curial law of arbitrations and the BVI court’s approach to their supervision. The Arbitration Act 2013, with its 2020 revisions, has a number of important distinctions from other supervisory regimes which practitioners should be aware of. The session will cover the granting of interim relief, intervention during the arbitral process including stays and challenges to arbitrators, and also the grounds for challenging awards.

Moderator:

• Hon. Dawn J. Smith, Attorney General of the British Virgin Islands

Speakers:

• Arabella Di Lorio,  Agon Litigation
• Andrew Willins,  Appleby
• Sue Prevezer KC, Brick Court Chambers
• Ben Woolger,  Brick Court Chambers

Coffee Break

Session IV: Arbitrator Subject-Matter Expertise: Benefit or Burden?

BVI Arbitration Group

The ability to select and appear before arbitrators with factual subject matter expertise is considered a great advantage of arbitration over litigation, and parties generally prefer that those deciding their disputes really understand their disputes.  But, how great an advantage is an arbitrator’s pre-existing subject matter expertise?

For example, in disputes involving construction, energy, and fintech, do veterans of those industries or lawyers who have mostly represented players in those industries have lasting advantages as arbitrators over blank slate arbitrators?  Are there risks that conflicts of interest will multiply or that natural justice will be denied if an arbitrator has too much or too specific subject matter expertise?  Do any such risks, if realized, imperil enforcement of arbitral awards?

All of these issues and more will be raised by a panel of arbitrators with general and specific expertise, with views that vary amongst themselves and that may well differ from those attending this interactive session.

Speakers:

• Nicholas Burkill, Ogier
• Natalie Reid, Debevoise & Plimpton
• Paul Klaas, Maitland Chambers

Dr. J.S Archibald, QC Memorial Lecture

Join us for the Dr. J.S Archibald QC Memorial Lecture, a prestigious event that celebrates the remarkable achievements of the late Dr. J.S Archibald QC and his pioneering work in the field of arbitration in the British Virgin Islands.

Each year, this esteemed lecture series invites a notable legal practitioner to share their expertise and insights on the subject. Join us as we gather esteemed scholars, experts, and practitioners from around the world to engage in enlightening conversations and thought-provoking discussions on arbitration.

This event offers a unique opportunity to honor the legacy of Dr. JS Archibald QC while learning from distinguished individuals who have made significant contributions to the legal profession.

Secure your seat now and be a part of this exceptional event that combines intellectual growth, a celebration of excellence, and a tribute to a visionary legal practitioner.

2024 Speaker:

Amb. (r.) David Huebner, FCIArb, C.Arb, CollArb

Lecture Theme: “Challenges to Our Status Quo:  Adapting Arbitration to a Changing World”

From technological innovation to climate change and state action, dynamics external to arbitration will increasingly change the nature, substance, and resolution of disputes.  Amb. Huebner will identify and discuss key dynamics that arbitration practitioners are likely to face in the future … and how and why adaptation should begin now.

Venue: The BVI International Arbitration Centre, 3rd Floor Ritter House

Cocktail Reception

Venue: The BVI International Arbitration Centre, 3rd Floor Ritter House

Morning Hike

Embark on the Pineapple Fields Hiking Trip and create an unforgettable memory in the heart of the British Virgin Islands. Whether you are an experienced hiker or a nature enthusiast seeking a unique experience, this activity hosted by BVI HIKE is perfect for all skill levels. Participants will enjoy a local breakfast choice of salt-fish, avocado, and fried dumplings, served in calabash bowls along with a cup of fresh lemonade.

Dress Code: BVI Arbitration Week T-shirt + Hiking Attire

Max Capacity: 60

Coffee & Tea

Session I: The Arbitrability of Offshore Financial Centre Disputes

This session will generally discuss key issues in the offshore sector including:

• The impact of the Privy Council judgement in FamilyMart and UKSC judgment in Mozambique;
• The arbitrability of investment fund disputes, trust disputes, shareholder disputes, professional liability disputes.
• Offshore jurisdictional differences concerning arbitrability

Moderator:

• Andrew Pullinger, Campbells

Speakers:

• Peter Mason, Arbitra International
• Henry Tucker, Harneys
• James Petkovic, Harneys

Session II: Effective Leadership in a Multi-Generational Workplace

Managing a multi-generational team is more than knowing where Gen Z begins and where millennials end. In fact, Pew Research Centre has recently ended its use of generational framing in its polls and surveys. Relying solely on these labels leads to the oversimplification of behaviours and outcomes. In this keynote, corporate educator Camille Dundas helps us understand how identities such as race, gender, and socio-economic status intersect with generational identities and provides best practices for leaders who are motivating team members across generations.

Speaker:

• Camille Dundas

Through keynotes, workshop series, and program implementations, she’s led challenging and solution-based conversations at global companies such as Google, KPMG Financial, AstraZeneca, and Hyundai.

Format: Remote/In Person

For Remote participation, please register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/effective-leadership-in-a-multi-generational-workplace-tickets-840293569687

Session III: Navigating Cross-Border Trade Challenges: Arbitration Strategies for Africa and the Caribbean

Africa and the Caribbean are two diverse regions with distinct economic and legal landscapes. With the ever-increasing volume of international trade between the regions, understanding the challenges specific to cross-border trade and the benefits of employing arbitration as an effective dispute resolution mechanism is critical. This session explores the arbitration strategies that can facilitate the effective resolution of disputes.

Moderator:

• Professor David Berry, University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus, Barbados

Speakers:

• Justice Anthony Gafoor, Tax Appeal Court
• Emilia Onyema, SOAS University of London
• Tolulope Aderemi, Perchstone & Graeys Lp
• Hamish Lal Partners

Lunch Arounds

Experience BVI’s food scene while connecting with a smaller group of colleagues at restaurants around the city centre.

Format: On the morning of the event, participants will be provided with details of a venue and menu for lunch. On arrival they will be paired with 5 other conference guests the identities of which will be unknown until arrival.

Sip & Paint ft. Vodka Tasting

Unleash your inner artist and indulge your taste buds at our one-of-a-kind Sip and Paint with Vodka Tasting event during BVI Arbitration Week! Join us for an evening filled with creativity, delicious vodka samples, and great company. Paint a masterpiece under the guidance of a professional artist while savouring a variety of premium vodka flavours. Whether you're an experienced artist or just looking for a fun and unique experience, this event is perfect for networking and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of BVI. Don't miss out on this delightful fusion of art and vodka. Reserve your spot now and let your creativity flow!

Venue: SEVEN at the Pier, The BVI Pier Park

Session I: The Future of Sports Arbitration in the Caribbean and Latin America

Moderator:

• Daniel Brantes, Ph.D, FCIArb Independent Arbitrator

Speakers

• Tyrone Marcus, University of the West Indies
• Carol Roberts, Independent Arbitrator
• William Sternheimer, Morgan Sports Law

Format: Remote

For remote participation, please register here:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/840263208877?aff=oddtdtcreator

Arb Sail

Experience the ultimate boating adventure during BVI Arbitration Week 2024 with our highly anticipated excursion to Norman Island. Embark on a journey that promises to leave you captivated by the beauty of the British Virgin Islands and the excitement of the open sea.

Known as the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s famous novel, “Treasure Island” – this destination is steeped in mystery and allure. Be sure to wear your beach attire under your provided BVI Arbitration Week T-shirt. You will need to take a swim in the crystal-clear turquoise waters or simply bask in the sun.

Dress Code: BVI Arbitration Week T-shirt + Beach Attire

Lunch is included