Court Decisions

The court decisions available on this website interpret and apply the New York Convention. These court decisions are in most cases published in the Yearbook Commercial Arbitration since its Volume I (1976).

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The court decisions available on this website interpret and apply the New York Convention.

Most decisions are reported in the Yearbook Commercial Arbitration, published by ICCA since 1976, and are numbered as in the Yearbook (e.g., US no. 954).
Other decisions are indicated by country, date, and a short name (e.g., UK 18 June 2020 Alexander Brothers).

Court decisions can be searched by country and by topic.

Court Decisions

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2023 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 2024-5
United States District Court, Southern District of New York, 29 June 2023, 22-cv-7503 (PKC); 21-cv-6704 (PKC)

(Preble-Rish Haiti, S.A., v. Republic of Haiti, Bureau de Monétisation des Programmes d'aide au Développement)

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

105

The court discusses issues relating to the quality of the parties, as physical or legal persons against whom enforcement of an arbitral award is sought, including the incapacity of a State to enter into an arbitration agreement, and questions relating to sovereign immunity. For the related defenses to enforcement, see Art. V(1)(a).

"Persons, whether physical or legal" (paragraph 1) (including sovereign immunity)

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

501

The court discusses questions relating to the general approach taken by the Convention to the grounds for refusal of recognition and enforcement, including its pro-enforcement bias, as well as the system of the Convention, under which recognition and enforcement may only be denied on seven listed grounds and the petitioner has only the obligations set out in Art. IV.

Grounds are exhaustive

502

The court discusses the principle that the merits of the award may not be reviewed and that the court may only carry out a limited review of the award to ascertain grounds for refusal.

No re-examination of the merits of the arbitral award

507

Invalidity of the arbitration agreement: The court discusses other cases of invalidity of the arbitration agreement, including that there was no agreement at all or that the party was not a signatory thereto, that the incorrect arbitral institution was chosen, etc.

Miscellaneous cases regarding the arbitration agreement
2022 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 1050
United States Court of Appeals, Second Circuit, 3 October 2022, No. 20-4248

(Commodities & Minerals Enterprise Ltd. v. CVG Ferrominera Orinoco, C.A.)

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

501

The court discusses questions relating to the general approach taken by the Convention to the grounds for refusal of recognition and enforcement, including its pro-enforcement bias, as well as the system of the Convention, under which recognition and enforcement may only be denied on seven listed grounds and the petitioner has only the obligations set out in Art. IV.

Grounds are exhaustive

506

Invalidity of the arbitration agreement: The court discusses the law applicable to the validity of the arbitration agreement at the enforcement stage.

Law applicable to the arbitration agreement

512 Ground c: Excess by arbitrator of his authority - Excess of authority

518

Public policy: The court discusses the meaning of (international as compared to domestic) public policy, generally defined as the basic notions of morality and justice of the enforcement State.

Paragraph 2 - Distinction domestic-international public policy

524

Public policy: The court discusses the effect of other alleged violations of public policy on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, such as contradictory reasons, manifest disregard of the law (US), etc.

Other cases
2022 China

Excerpt Topics

CHINA PR 2024-1
Intermediate People’s Court, Jiangsu Province, Wuxi, 30 May 2022, Su 02 Zhi Yi No. 13

(Sunan Ruili Airlines Co., Ltd., Yunnan Jingcheng Group Co., Ltd., and Dong Lecheng v. CLC Aircraft Leasing (Tianjin) Co., Ltd)

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

513 Ground d: Irregularity in the composition of the arbitral tribunal or arbitral procedure
2020 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 22 May 2020 Dreymoor Fertilizers
United States District Court, District of Kansas, 22 May 2020, Case No. 20-mc-0105-EFM-GEB

(Dreymoor Fertilizers Overseas Pte. Ltd. v. Avagro, LLC, and UAB Avagro)

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

401

The court discusses the general conditions the Convention imposes on a petitioner for seeking recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award – namely, the submission of the original arbitration agreement or arbitral award or a certified copy thereof – and examines in general whether these conditions were complied in the case at issue.

Conditions to be fulfilled by petitioner in general
2018 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 969

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

307

The court discusses questions relating to interest on the amount due under the arbitral award, including whether the enforcement court may grant interest not granted in the award, modify interest granted in the award, and grant post-award interest.

Interest on award

401

The court discusses the general conditions the Convention imposes on a petitioner for seeking recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award – namely, the submission of the original arbitration agreement or arbitral award or a certified copy thereof – and examines in general whether these conditions were complied in the case at issue.

Conditions to be fulfilled by petitioner in general

501

The court discusses questions relating to the general approach taken by the Convention to the grounds for refusal of recognition and enforcement, including its pro-enforcement bias, as well as the system of the Convention, under which recognition and enforcement may only be denied on seven listed grounds and the petitioner has only the obligations set out in Art. IV.

Grounds are exhaustive
2016 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 889

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

106

The court discusses issues relating to the identity of the party against whom enforcement of the arbitral award is sought, including: piercing of the corporate veil, succession, assignment, State or State entity, group of companies, agent or principal, etc. For the related defenses to enforcement, see Art. V(1)(a).

Problems concerning the identity of a party

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

500

The court discusses the overall scheme and/or pro-enforcement bias of the Convention.

Grounds for refusal of enforcement in general

UNITED STATES 848

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

501

The court discusses questions relating to the general approach taken by the Convention to the grounds for refusal of recognition and enforcement, including its pro-enforcement bias, as well as the system of the Convention, under which recognition and enforcement may only be denied on seven listed grounds and the petitioner has only the obligations set out in Art. IV.

Grounds are exhaustive

524

Public policy: The court discusses the effect of other alleged violations of public policy on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, such as contradictory reasons, manifest disregard of the law (US), etc.

Other cases
2015 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 860

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

UNITED STATES 853

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

404

The court discusses issues relating to the manner of authentication and certification of the award and/or arbitration agreement.

Authentication and certification

UNITED STATES 852

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

104

The court discusses whether the Convention applies to domestic arbitration and to proceedings for the setting aside of domestic awards.

Convention's applicability in other cases

501

The court discusses questions relating to the general approach taken by the Convention to the grounds for refusal of recognition and enforcement, including its pro-enforcement bias, as well as the system of the Convention, under which recognition and enforcement may only be denied on seven listed grounds and the petitioner has only the obligations set out in Art. IV.

Grounds are exhaustive

503

The court discusses the burden of proof of the grounds for refusing enforcement under the Convention.

Burden of proof on respondent

518

Public policy: The court discusses the meaning of (international as compared to domestic) public policy, generally defined as the basic notions of morality and justice of the enforcement State.

Paragraph 2 - Distinction domestic-international public policy

524

Public policy: The court discusses the effect of other alleged violations of public policy on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, such as contradictory reasons, manifest disregard of the law (US), etc.

Other cases

704(A) Panama Convention of 1975

UNITED STATES 850

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

501

The court discusses questions relating to the general approach taken by the Convention to the grounds for refusal of recognition and enforcement, including its pro-enforcement bias, as well as the system of the Convention, under which recognition and enforcement may only be denied on seven listed grounds and the petitioner has only the obligations set out in Art. IV.

Grounds are exhaustive

514 Ground e: Award not binding, suspended or set aside - "Binding"

516

Award not binding, suspended or set aside: The court discusses the difference between the exclusive jurisdiction to set aside an award (primary jurisdiction), which belongs to the courts of the country of origin of the award, and the jurisdiction of all other courts to recognize and enforce the award (secondary jurisdiction); issues relating to the determination of the “competent authority”; and whether an award that has been set aside in the country of origin can be enforced in another State under the Convention.

"Set aside"

UNITED STATES 838

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

104

The court discusses whether the Convention applies to domestic arbitration and to proceedings for the setting aside of domestic awards.

Convention's applicability in other cases

501

The court discusses questions relating to the general approach taken by the Convention to the grounds for refusal of recognition and enforcement, including its pro-enforcement bias, as well as the system of the Convention, under which recognition and enforcement may only be denied on seven listed grounds and the petitioner has only the obligations set out in Art. IV.

Grounds are exhaustive

511

Due process: The court discusses various irregularities affecting due process, including letters not sent, names of arbitrators or experts not communicated, language of proceedings and communications, etc.

"Otherwise unable to present his case"

512 Ground c: Excess by arbitrator of his authority - Excess of authority

524

Public policy: The court discusses the effect of other alleged violations of public policy on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, such as contradictory reasons, manifest disregard of the law (US), etc.

Other cases
2012 India

Excerpt Topics

INDIA 48

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

503

The court discusses the burden of proof of the grounds for refusing enforcement under the Convention.

Burden of proof on respondent

516

Award not binding, suspended or set aside: The court discusses the difference between the exclusive jurisdiction to set aside an award (primary jurisdiction), which belongs to the courts of the country of origin of the award, and the jurisdiction of all other courts to recognize and enforce the award (secondary jurisdiction); issues relating to the determination of the “competent authority”; and whether an award that has been set aside in the country of origin can be enforced in another State under the Convention.

"Set aside"
2012 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 771

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

214-216 Field of application

217

The court discusses the meaning and effect of the referral of the resolution of disputes to arbitration, including: who can ask for referral and when, whether a party has waived its right to request arbitration, the defense that there was no contract at all; whether there was a condition precedent to the commencement of arbitration (e.g. mediation), stay of proceedings v. compelling arbitration, and national procedural specificities such as remand and removal (US), effect of class action. etc.

Referral to arbitration in general
2011 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 921

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

UNITED STATES 732

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

518

Public policy: The court discusses the meaning of (international as compared to domestic) public policy, generally defined as the basic notions of morality and justice of the enforcement State.

Paragraph 2 - Distinction domestic-international public policy

524

Public policy: The court discusses the effect of other alleged violations of public policy on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, such as contradictory reasons, manifest disregard of the law (US), etc.

Other cases

UNITED STATES 730

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

303

The court discusses the conditions under which a party may be estopped from raising a ground for refusal of enforcement under the Convention or has waived the right to raise it.

Estoppel/waiver

307

The court discusses questions relating to interest on the amount due under the arbitral award, including whether the enforcement court may grant interest not granted in the award, modify interest granted in the award, and grant post-award interest.

Interest on award

500

The court discusses the overall scheme and/or pro-enforcement bias of the Convention.

Grounds for refusal of enforcement in general

501

The court discusses questions relating to the general approach taken by the Convention to the grounds for refusal of recognition and enforcement, including its pro-enforcement bias, as well as the system of the Convention, under which recognition and enforcement may only be denied on seven listed grounds and the petitioner has only the obligations set out in Art. IV.

Grounds are exhaustive

518

Public policy: The court discusses the meaning of (international as compared to domestic) public policy, generally defined as the basic notions of morality and justice of the enforcement State.

Paragraph 2 - Distinction domestic-international public policy

524

Public policy: The court discusses the effect of other alleged violations of public policy on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, such as contradictory reasons, manifest disregard of the law (US), etc.

Other cases

UNITED STATES 729

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

501

The court discusses questions relating to the general approach taken by the Convention to the grounds for refusal of recognition and enforcement, including its pro-enforcement bias, as well as the system of the Convention, under which recognition and enforcement may only be denied on seven listed grounds and the petitioner has only the obligations set out in Art. IV.

Grounds are exhaustive

503

The court discusses the burden of proof of the grounds for refusing enforcement under the Convention.

Burden of proof on respondent
2011 Brazil

Excerpt Topics

BRAZIL 14

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)
2010 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 712

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

104

The court discusses whether the Convention applies to domestic arbitration and to proceedings for the setting aside of domestic awards.

Convention's applicability in other cases

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

UNITED STATES 711

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

104

The court discusses whether the Convention applies to domestic arbitration and to proceedings for the setting aside of domestic awards.

Convention's applicability in other cases

524

Public policy: The court discusses the effect of other alleged violations of public policy on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, such as contradictory reasons, manifest disregard of the law (US), etc.

Other cases

UNITED STATES 704

101

The court discusses the determination and relevance of the place where the award was made (in a foreign State or another contracting State.

Award made in the territory of another (Contracting) State (paragraphs 1 and 3 - first or "reciprocity" reservation)

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

UNITED STATES 696

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

103

The court discusses the impact of the nationality of the parties on the application of the Convention.

Nationality of the parties no criterion

104

The court discusses whether the Convention applies to domestic arbitration and to proceedings for the setting aside of domestic awards.

Convention's applicability in other cases

105

The court discusses issues relating to the quality of the parties, as physical or legal persons against whom enforcement of an arbitral award is sought, including the incapacity of a State to enter into an arbitration agreement, and questions relating to sovereign immunity. For the related defenses to enforcement, see Art. V(1)(a).

"Persons, whether physical or legal" (paragraph 1) (including sovereign immunity)

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

500

The court discusses the overall scheme and/or pro-enforcement bias of the Convention.

Grounds for refusal of enforcement in general

516

Award not binding, suspended or set aside: The court discusses the difference between the exclusive jurisdiction to set aside an award (primary jurisdiction), which belongs to the courts of the country of origin of the award, and the jurisdiction of all other courts to recognize and enforce the award (secondary jurisdiction); issues relating to the determination of the “competent authority”; and whether an award that has been set aside in the country of origin can be enforced in another State under the Convention.

"Set aside"

517

Award not binding, suspended or set aside: The court discusses the meaning of an award having been “suspended” in the country of origin, including when the award has been suspended by operation of law rather than by a court decision.

"Suspended"

601

The court discusses the conditions for granting adjournment of a proceeding relating to the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, and the court’s discretionary power to do so, as well the determination of “suitable security” and the power to request it.

Adjournment of decision on enforcement

UNITED STATES 692

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)
2009 China

Excerpt Topics

CHINA PR 7

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

303

The court discusses the conditions under which a party may be estopped from raising a ground for refusal of enforcement under the Convention or has waived the right to raise it.

Estoppel/waiver

509

Due process: The court discusses what constitutes “proper notice” of the appointment of the arbitrators or of the arbitration proceedings.

"Proper notice"
2009 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 661

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

501

The court discusses questions relating to the general approach taken by the Convention to the grounds for refusal of recognition and enforcement, including its pro-enforcement bias, as well as the system of the Convention, under which recognition and enforcement may only be denied on seven listed grounds and the petitioner has only the obligations set out in Art. IV.

Grounds are exhaustive

524

Public policy: The court discusses the effect of other alleged violations of public policy on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, such as contradictory reasons, manifest disregard of the law (US), etc.

Other cases

704(A) Panama Convention of 1975
2008 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 654

101

The court discusses the determination and relevance of the place where the award was made (in a foreign State or another contracting State.

Award made in the territory of another (Contracting) State (paragraphs 1 and 3 - first or "reciprocity" reservation)

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

104

The court discusses whether the Convention applies to domestic arbitration and to proceedings for the setting aside of domestic awards.

Convention's applicability in other cases

501

The court discusses questions relating to the general approach taken by the Convention to the grounds for refusal of recognition and enforcement, including its pro-enforcement bias, as well as the system of the Convention, under which recognition and enforcement may only be denied on seven listed grounds and the petitioner has only the obligations set out in Art. IV.

Grounds are exhaustive

502

The court discusses the principle that the merits of the award may not be reviewed and that the court may only carry out a limited review of the award to ascertain grounds for refusal.

No re-examination of the merits of the arbitral award

511

Due process: The court discusses various irregularities affecting due process, including letters not sent, names of arbitrators or experts not communicated, language of proceedings and communications, etc.

"Otherwise unable to present his case"

512 Ground c: Excess by arbitrator of his authority - Excess of authority

524

Public policy: The court discusses the effect of other alleged violations of public policy on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, such as contradictory reasons, manifest disregard of the law (US), etc.

Other cases

UNITED STATES 634

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general
2007 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 620

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

104

The court discusses whether the Convention applies to domestic arbitration and to proceedings for the setting aside of domestic awards.

Convention's applicability in other cases

511

Due process: The court discusses various irregularities affecting due process, including letters not sent, names of arbitrators or experts not communicated, language of proceedings and communications, etc.

"Otherwise unable to present his case"

524

Public policy: The court discusses the effect of other alleged violations of public policy on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, such as contradictory reasons, manifest disregard of the law (US), etc.

Other cases
2006 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 613

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

104

The court discusses whether the Convention applies to domestic arbitration and to proceedings for the setting aside of domestic awards.

Convention's applicability in other cases

110

The court discusses the definition of “arbitral award”, and the application of the Convention to the various types of award, including awards on specific performance, awards enjoining a party from certain conduct, declaratory awards, etc. Also, whether preliminary, partial, interim, interlocutory awards, and awards by consent can be enforced under the Convention.

Arbitral award: types

500

The court discusses the overall scheme and/or pro-enforcement bias of the Convention.

Grounds for refusal of enforcement in general

501

The court discusses questions relating to the general approach taken by the Convention to the grounds for refusal of recognition and enforcement, including its pro-enforcement bias, as well as the system of the Convention, under which recognition and enforcement may only be denied on seven listed grounds and the petitioner has only the obligations set out in Art. IV.

Grounds are exhaustive

503

The court discusses the burden of proof of the grounds for refusing enforcement under the Convention.

Burden of proof on respondent

513 Ground d: Irregularity in the composition of the arbitral tribunal or arbitral procedure
2006 Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of

Excerpt Topics

VENEZUELA 1

101

The court discusses the determination and relevance of the place where the award was made (in a foreign State or another contracting State.

Award made in the territory of another (Contracting) State (paragraphs 1 and 3 - first or "reciprocity" reservation)

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

516

Award not binding, suspended or set aside: The court discusses the difference between the exclusive jurisdiction to set aside an award (primary jurisdiction), which belongs to the courts of the country of origin of the award, and the jurisdiction of all other courts to recognize and enforce the award (secondary jurisdiction); issues relating to the determination of the “competent authority”; and whether an award that has been set aside in the country of origin can be enforced in another State under the Convention.

"Set aside"
2005 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 555

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

104

The court discusses whether the Convention applies to domestic arbitration and to proceedings for the setting aside of domestic awards.

Convention's applicability in other cases

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

UNITED STATES 540

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

229

Related court proceedings: The court discusses measures in aid of arbitration (e.g., anti-suit injunction). This topic also includes the issue of the relationship between the Convention and the recognition of a foreign judgment on the validity of the arbitration agreement.

Measures in aid of arbitration anti-suit injunction

501

The court discusses questions relating to the general approach taken by the Convention to the grounds for refusal of recognition and enforcement, including its pro-enforcement bias, as well as the system of the Convention, under which recognition and enforcement may only be denied on seven listed grounds and the petitioner has only the obligations set out in Art. IV.

Grounds are exhaustive

502

The court discusses the principle that the merits of the award may not be reviewed and that the court may only carry out a limited review of the award to ascertain grounds for refusal.

No re-examination of the merits of the arbitral award

UNITED STATES 533

101

The court discusses the determination and relevance of the place where the award was made (in a foreign State or another contracting State.

Award made in the territory of another (Contracting) State (paragraphs 1 and 3 - first or "reciprocity" reservation)

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

104

The court discusses whether the Convention applies to domestic arbitration and to proceedings for the setting aside of domestic awards.

Convention's applicability in other cases
2004 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 510

101

The court discusses the determination and relevance of the place where the award was made (in a foreign State or another contracting State.

Award made in the territory of another (Contracting) State (paragraphs 1 and 3 - first or "reciprocity" reservation)

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

305

The court discusses the applicability of this requirement under (domestic) US law – that parties must have expressed in the arbitration agreement their consent that judgment of the court shall be entered upon the award –in respect of Convention awards.

Entry of judgment clause

524

Public policy: The court discusses the effect of other alleged violations of public policy on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, such as contradictory reasons, manifest disregard of the law (US), etc.

Other cases

UNITED STATES 507

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

501

The court discusses questions relating to the general approach taken by the Convention to the grounds for refusal of recognition and enforcement, including its pro-enforcement bias, as well as the system of the Convention, under which recognition and enforcement may only be denied on seven listed grounds and the petitioner has only the obligations set out in Art. IV.

Grounds are exhaustive

502

The court discusses the principle that the merits of the award may not be reviewed and that the court may only carry out a limited review of the award to ascertain grounds for refusal.

No re-examination of the merits of the arbitral award

503

The court discusses the burden of proof of the grounds for refusing enforcement under the Convention.

Burden of proof on respondent

508 Ground b: Violation of due process in general

511

Due process: The court discusses various irregularities affecting due process, including letters not sent, names of arbitrators or experts not communicated, language of proceedings and communications, etc.

"Otherwise unable to present his case"

513 Ground d: Irregularity in the composition of the arbitral tribunal or arbitral procedure

524

Public policy: The court discusses the effect of other alleged violations of public policy on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, such as contradictory reasons, manifest disregard of the law (US), etc.

Other cases

UNITED STATES 527

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

103

The court discusses the impact of the nationality of the parties on the application of the Convention.

Nationality of the parties no criterion

104

The court discusses whether the Convention applies to domestic arbitration and to proceedings for the setting aside of domestic awards.

Convention's applicability in other cases

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

502

The court discusses the principle that the merits of the award may not be reviewed and that the court may only carry out a limited review of the award to ascertain grounds for refusal.

No re-examination of the merits of the arbitral award

508 Ground b: Violation of due process in general

UNITED STATES 477

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

104

The court discusses whether the Convention applies to domestic arbitration and to proceedings for the setting aside of domestic awards.

Convention's applicability in other cases

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

307

The court discusses questions relating to interest on the amount due under the arbitral award, including whether the enforcement court may grant interest not granted in the award, modify interest granted in the award, and grant post-award interest.

Interest on award

524

Public policy: The court discusses the effect of other alleged violations of public policy on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, such as contradictory reasons, manifest disregard of the law (US), etc.

Other cases
2003 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 471

101

The court discusses the determination and relevance of the place where the award was made (in a foreign State or another contracting State.

Award made in the territory of another (Contracting) State (paragraphs 1 and 3 - first or "reciprocity" reservation)

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

501

The court discusses questions relating to the general approach taken by the Convention to the grounds for refusal of recognition and enforcement, including its pro-enforcement bias, as well as the system of the Convention, under which recognition and enforcement may only be denied on seven listed grounds and the petitioner has only the obligations set out in Art. IV.

Grounds are exhaustive

513 Ground d: Irregularity in the composition of the arbitral tribunal or arbitral procedure

514 Ground e: Award not binding, suspended or set aside - "Binding"

704(A) Panama Convention of 1975

UNITED STATES 468

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

104

The court discusses whether the Convention applies to domestic arbitration and to proceedings for the setting aside of domestic awards.

Convention's applicability in other cases

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

306

The court discusses the applicable period of limitation for seeking enforcement of an award.

Period of limitation for enforcement

UNITED STATES 484

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

601

The court discusses the conditions for granting adjournment of a proceeding relating to the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, and the court’s discretionary power to do so, as well the determination of “suitable security” and the power to request it.

Adjournment of decision on enforcement

UNITED STATES 452

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

500

The court discusses the overall scheme and/or pro-enforcement bias of the Convention.

Grounds for refusal of enforcement in general

501

The court discusses questions relating to the general approach taken by the Convention to the grounds for refusal of recognition and enforcement, including its pro-enforcement bias, as well as the system of the Convention, under which recognition and enforcement may only be denied on seven listed grounds and the petitioner has only the obligations set out in Art. IV.

Grounds are exhaustive

504 Paragraph 1 - Ground a: Invalidity of the arbitration agreement - Agreement referred to in Art. II

516

Award not binding, suspended or set aside: The court discusses the difference between the exclusive jurisdiction to set aside an award (primary jurisdiction), which belongs to the courts of the country of origin of the award, and the jurisdiction of all other courts to recognize and enforce the award (secondary jurisdiction); issues relating to the determination of the “competent authority”; and whether an award that has been set aside in the country of origin can be enforced in another State under the Convention.

"Set aside"

519

Public policy: The court discusses cases in which the subject matter of the award was not arbitrable in the enforcement State on public policy grounds.

Ground a: Arbitrability

524

Public policy: The court discusses the effect of other alleged violations of public policy on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, such as contradictory reasons, manifest disregard of the law (US), etc.

Other cases

601

The court discusses the conditions for granting adjournment of a proceeding relating to the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, and the court’s discretionary power to do so, as well the determination of “suitable security” and the power to request it.

Adjournment of decision on enforcement

702

More-favorable right provision: The court discusses examples of domestic laws of countries where enforcement of foreign awards is more favorable.

Domestic law on enforcement of foreign award

UNITED STATES 437

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

104

The court discusses whether the Convention applies to domestic arbitration and to proceedings for the setting aside of domestic awards.

Convention's applicability in other cases

516

Award not binding, suspended or set aside: The court discusses the difference between the exclusive jurisdiction to set aside an award (primary jurisdiction), which belongs to the courts of the country of origin of the award, and the jurisdiction of all other courts to recognize and enforce the award (secondary jurisdiction); issues relating to the determination of the “competent authority”; and whether an award that has been set aside in the country of origin can be enforced in another State under the Convention.

"Set aside"

UNITED STATES 426

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

516

Award not binding, suspended or set aside: The court discusses the difference between the exclusive jurisdiction to set aside an award (primary jurisdiction), which belongs to the courts of the country of origin of the award, and the jurisdiction of all other courts to recognize and enforce the award (secondary jurisdiction); issues relating to the determination of the “competent authority”; and whether an award that has been set aside in the country of origin can be enforced in another State under the Convention.

"Set aside"
2002 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 401

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

500

The court discusses the overall scheme and/or pro-enforcement bias of the Convention.

Grounds for refusal of enforcement in general

512 Ground c: Excess by arbitrator of his authority - Excess of authority

524

Public policy: The court discusses the effect of other alleged violations of public policy on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, such as contradictory reasons, manifest disregard of the law (US), etc.

Other cases
2001 Germany

Excerpt Topics

GERMANY 60 B
Bundesgerichtshof, 1 February 2001

(Dutch Shipowner v. German Cattle and Meat Dealer)

101

The court discusses the determination and relevance of the place where the award was made (in a foreign State or another contracting State.

Award made in the territory of another (Contracting) State (paragraphs 1 and 3 - first or "reciprocity" reservation)

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

104

The court discusses whether the Convention applies to domestic arbitration and to proceedings for the setting aside of domestic awards.

Convention's applicability in other cases

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

303

The court discusses the conditions under which a party may be estopped from raising a ground for refusal of enforcement under the Convention or has waived the right to raise it.

Estoppel/waiver

402

The court discusses how to determine whether the document supplied is an award capable of being recognized and enforced, including whether the award is duly authenticated, and whether a copy is duly certified; whether a prior interim and/or partial award should be supplied together with the final award.

Original or copy arbitral award

403

The court discusses issues relating to the requirement to supply the original arbitration agreement or a copy thereof to prove the prima facie validity of the arbitration agreement, as well as the application of more favorable municipal laws that do not provide for this requirement.

Original or copy arbitration agreement

406

The court discusses issues relating to the requirements of the translation (translation by sworn translator, translation of entire award etc.) and whether a translation is necessary.

Translation (paragraph 2)

502

The court discusses the principle that the merits of the award may not be reviewed and that the court may only carry out a limited review of the award to ascertain grounds for refusal.

No re-examination of the merits of the arbitral award

503

The court discusses the burden of proof of the grounds for refusing enforcement under the Convention.

Burden of proof on respondent

507

Invalidity of the arbitration agreement: The court discusses other cases of invalidity of the arbitration agreement, including that there was no agreement at all or that the party was not a signatory thereto, that the incorrect arbitral institution was chosen, etc.

Miscellaneous cases regarding the arbitration agreement

509

Due process: The court discusses what constitutes “proper notice” of the appointment of the arbitrators or of the arbitration proceedings.

"Proper notice"

518

Public policy: The court discusses the meaning of (international as compared to domestic) public policy, generally defined as the basic notions of morality and justice of the enforcement State.

Paragraph 2 - Distinction domestic-international public policy

521

Public policy: The court discusses the consequences of the apparent or actual bias of an arbitrator on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award.

Lack of impartiality of arbitrator

523

Public policy: The court discusses alleged violations of a fundamental rule of due process in the arbitration on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, including the failure to communicate the names of the arbitrators, the failure to send copies of reports or letters filed in the arbitration, etc.

Irregularities in the arbitral procedure (see also Art. V(1)(b))
2001 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 360

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

307

The court discusses questions relating to interest on the amount due under the arbitral award, including whether the enforcement court may grant interest not granted in the award, modify interest granted in the award, and grant post-award interest.

Interest on award

524

Public policy: The court discusses the effect of other alleged violations of public policy on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, such as contradictory reasons, manifest disregard of the law (US), etc.

Other cases
2000 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 340

001

The court discusses general questions relating to the interpretation of the Convention as an international treaty, also in respect of the methods of interpretation laid down in the 1969 Vienna Convention; the relationship between the New York Convention and the UNCITRAL Model Law and Recommendation 2006.

Interpretation of the Convention

101

The court discusses the determination and relevance of the place where the award was made (in a foreign State or another contracting State.

Award made in the territory of another (Contracting) State (paragraphs 1 and 3 - first or "reciprocity" reservation)

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

104

The court discusses whether the Convention applies to domestic arbitration and to proceedings for the setting aside of domestic awards.

Convention's applicability in other cases

107

The court discusses the relevance and determination of the commercial nature of the relationship underlying the award, including in the context of contractual and non-contractual relations.

Second reservation ("commercial reservation") (paragraph 3)

203-204 Formal validity, uniform law and municipal law

205

The court discusses the first alternative requirement of Art. II(2) that the arbitral award is “signed by the parties”.

Signatures

217

The court discusses the meaning and effect of the referral of the resolution of disputes to arbitration, including: who can ask for referral and when, whether a party has waived its right to request arbitration, the defense that there was no contract at all; whether there was a condition precedent to the commencement of arbitration (e.g. mediation), stay of proceedings v. compelling arbitration, and national procedural specificities such as remand and removal (US), effect of class action. etc.

Referral to arbitration in general

222

The court discusses the principle of competence-competence, including whether the parties “intended to have arbitrability decided by an arbitrator”, and the separability of the arbitration agreement from the main contract.

Arbitrator's competence and separability of the arbitration clause

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

303

The court discusses the conditions under which a party may be estopped from raising a ground for refusal of enforcement under the Convention or has waived the right to raise it.

Estoppel/waiver

403

The court discusses issues relating to the requirement to supply the original arbitration agreement or a copy thereof to prove the prima facie validity of the arbitration agreement, as well as the application of more favorable municipal laws that do not provide for this requirement.

Original or copy arbitration agreement

501

The court discusses questions relating to the general approach taken by the Convention to the grounds for refusal of recognition and enforcement, including its pro-enforcement bias, as well as the system of the Convention, under which recognition and enforcement may only be denied on seven listed grounds and the petitioner has only the obligations set out in Art. IV.

Grounds are exhaustive

504 Paragraph 1 - Ground a: Invalidity of the arbitration agreement - Agreement referred to in Art. II

516

Award not binding, suspended or set aside: The court discusses the difference between the exclusive jurisdiction to set aside an award (primary jurisdiction), which belongs to the courts of the country of origin of the award, and the jurisdiction of all other courts to recognize and enforce the award (secondary jurisdiction); issues relating to the determination of the “competent authority”; and whether an award that has been set aside in the country of origin can be enforced in another State under the Convention.

"Set aside"

518

Public policy: The court discusses the meaning of (international as compared to domestic) public policy, generally defined as the basic notions of morality and justice of the enforcement State.

Paragraph 2 - Distinction domestic-international public policy

524

Public policy: The court discusses the effect of other alleged violations of public policy on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, such as contradictory reasons, manifest disregard of the law (US), etc.

Other cases
1999 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 325

101

The court discusses the determination and relevance of the place where the award was made (in a foreign State or another contracting State.

Award made in the territory of another (Contracting) State (paragraphs 1 and 3 - first or "reciprocity" reservation)

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

514 Ground e: Award not binding, suspended or set aside - "Binding"

516

Award not binding, suspended or set aside: The court discusses the difference between the exclusive jurisdiction to set aside an award (primary jurisdiction), which belongs to the courts of the country of origin of the award, and the jurisdiction of all other courts to recognize and enforce the award (secondary jurisdiction); issues relating to the determination of the “competent authority”; and whether an award that has been set aside in the country of origin can be enforced in another State under the Convention.

"Set aside"

UNITED STATES 322

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

500

The court discusses the overall scheme and/or pro-enforcement bias of the Convention.

Grounds for refusal of enforcement in general

518

Public policy: The court discusses the meaning of (international as compared to domestic) public policy, generally defined as the basic notions of morality and justice of the enforcement State.

Paragraph 2 - Distinction domestic-international public policy

519

Public policy: The court discusses cases in which the subject matter of the award was not arbitrable in the enforcement State on public policy grounds.

Ground a: Arbitrability

UNITED STATES 318

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

500

The court discusses the overall scheme and/or pro-enforcement bias of the Convention.

Grounds for refusal of enforcement in general

518

Public policy: The court discusses the meaning of (international as compared to domestic) public policy, generally defined as the basic notions of morality and justice of the enforcement State.

Paragraph 2 - Distinction domestic-international public policy

519

Public policy: The court discusses cases in which the subject matter of the award was not arbitrable in the enforcement State on public policy grounds.

Ground a: Arbitrability

UNITED STATES 315

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

214-216 Field of application

217

The court discusses the meaning and effect of the referral of the resolution of disputes to arbitration, including: who can ask for referral and when, whether a party has waived its right to request arbitration, the defense that there was no contract at all; whether there was a condition precedent to the commencement of arbitration (e.g. mediation), stay of proceedings v. compelling arbitration, and national procedural specificities such as remand and removal (US), effect of class action. etc.

Referral to arbitration in general

UNITED STATES 314

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

201

The court discusses whether the dispute falls within the wording of the arbitration agreement; and whether claims in tort fall within the scope of the agreement.

Scope of arbitration agreement

202

The court discusses the form in which the arbitration agreement is expressed: short form arbitration clause, reference to rules of institution, etc.

Contents of arbitration agreement

214-216 Field of application

217

The court discusses the meaning and effect of the referral of the resolution of disputes to arbitration, including: who can ask for referral and when, whether a party has waived its right to request arbitration, the defense that there was no contract at all; whether there was a condition precedent to the commencement of arbitration (e.g. mediation), stay of proceedings v. compelling arbitration, and national procedural specificities such as remand and removal (US), effect of class action. etc.

Referral to arbitration in general

228

Related court proceedings: The court discusses whether provisional measures, such as the pre-award attachment of assets, are compatible with the Convention.

Pre-award attachment and other provisional measures

UNITED STATES 313

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

104

The court discusses whether the Convention applies to domestic arbitration and to proceedings for the setting aside of domestic awards.

Convention's applicability in other cases

524

Public policy: The court discusses the effect of other alleged violations of public policy on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, such as contradictory reasons, manifest disregard of the law (US), etc.

Other cases
1999 Germany

Excerpt Topics

GERMANY 60 A
Oberlandesgericht, Stuttgart, 18 October 1999

(Dutch Shipowner v. German Cattle and Meat Dealer)

101

The court discusses the determination and relevance of the place where the award was made (in a foreign State or another contracting State.

Award made in the territory of another (Contracting) State (paragraphs 1 and 3 - first or "reciprocity" reservation)

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

104

The court discusses whether the Convention applies to domestic arbitration and to proceedings for the setting aside of domestic awards.

Convention's applicability in other cases

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

303

The court discusses the conditions under which a party may be estopped from raising a ground for refusal of enforcement under the Convention or has waived the right to raise it.

Estoppel/waiver

402

The court discusses how to determine whether the document supplied is an award capable of being recognized and enforced, including whether the award is duly authenticated, and whether a copy is duly certified; whether a prior interim and/or partial award should be supplied together with the final award.

Original or copy arbitral award

403

The court discusses issues relating to the requirement to supply the original arbitration agreement or a copy thereof to prove the prima facie validity of the arbitration agreement, as well as the application of more favorable municipal laws that do not provide for this requirement.

Original or copy arbitration agreement

406

The court discusses issues relating to the requirements of the translation (translation by sworn translator, translation of entire award etc.) and whether a translation is necessary.

Translation (paragraph 2)

502

The court discusses the principle that the merits of the award may not be reviewed and that the court may only carry out a limited review of the award to ascertain grounds for refusal.

No re-examination of the merits of the arbitral award

503

The court discusses the burden of proof of the grounds for refusing enforcement under the Convention.

Burden of proof on respondent

507

Invalidity of the arbitration agreement: The court discusses other cases of invalidity of the arbitration agreement, including that there was no agreement at all or that the party was not a signatory thereto, that the incorrect arbitral institution was chosen, etc.

Miscellaneous cases regarding the arbitration agreement

509

Due process: The court discusses what constitutes “proper notice” of the appointment of the arbitrators or of the arbitration proceedings.

"Proper notice"

518

Public policy: The court discusses the meaning of (international as compared to domestic) public policy, generally defined as the basic notions of morality and justice of the enforcement State.

Paragraph 2 - Distinction domestic-international public policy

521

Public policy: The court discusses the consequences of the apparent or actual bias of an arbitrator on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award.

Lack of impartiality of arbitrator

523

Public policy: The court discusses alleged violations of a fundamental rule of due process in the arbitration on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, including the failure to communicate the names of the arbitrators, the failure to send copies of reports or letters filed in the arbitration, etc.

Irregularities in the arbitral procedure (see also Art. V(1)(b))
1999 Colombia

Excerpt Topics

COLOMBIA 3 B
Corte Suprema de Justicia, 1 March 1999 (Merck & Co., Merck Frosst Canada Inc., Frosst Laboratories Inc. v. Tecnoquímicas SA)

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

110

The court discusses the definition of “arbitral award”, and the application of the Convention to the various types of award, including awards on specific performance, awards enjoining a party from certain conduct, declaratory awards, etc. Also, whether preliminary, partial, interim, interlocutory awards, and awards by consent can be enforced under the Convention.

Arbitral award: types

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

513 Ground d: Irregularity in the composition of the arbitral tribunal or arbitral procedure

COLOMBIA 3 A
Corte Suprema de Justicia, 26 January 1999

(Merck & Co., Merck Frosst Canada Inc., Frosst Laboratories Inc. v. Tecnoquímicas SA)

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

110

The court discusses the definition of “arbitral award”, and the application of the Convention to the various types of award, including awards on specific performance, awards enjoining a party from certain conduct, declaratory awards, etc. Also, whether preliminary, partial, interim, interlocutory awards, and awards by consent can be enforced under the Convention.

Arbitral award: types

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

513 Ground d: Irregularity in the composition of the arbitral tribunal or arbitral procedure
1998 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 283

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

105

The court discusses issues relating to the quality of the parties, as physical or legal persons against whom enforcement of an arbitral award is sought, including the incapacity of a State to enter into an arbitration agreement, and questions relating to sovereign immunity. For the related defenses to enforcement, see Art. V(1)(a).

"Persons, whether physical or legal" (paragraph 1) (including sovereign immunity)

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

523

Public policy: The court discusses alleged violations of a fundamental rule of due process in the arbitration on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, including the failure to communicate the names of the arbitrators, the failure to send copies of reports or letters filed in the arbitration, etc.

Irregularities in the arbitral procedure (see also Art. V(1)(b))

UNITED STATES 277

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

103

The court discusses the impact of the nationality of the parties on the application of the Convention.

Nationality of the parties no criterion

UNITED STATES 276

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

307

The court discusses questions relating to interest on the amount due under the arbitral award, including whether the enforcement court may grant interest not granted in the award, modify interest granted in the award, and grant post-award interest.

Interest on award

501

The court discusses questions relating to the general approach taken by the Convention to the grounds for refusal of recognition and enforcement, including its pro-enforcement bias, as well as the system of the Convention, under which recognition and enforcement may only be denied on seven listed grounds and the petitioner has only the obligations set out in Art. IV.

Grounds are exhaustive

503

The court discusses the burden of proof of the grounds for refusing enforcement under the Convention.

Burden of proof on respondent

513 Ground d: Irregularity in the composition of the arbitral tribunal or arbitral procedure

524

Public policy: The court discusses the effect of other alleged violations of public policy on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, such as contradictory reasons, manifest disregard of the law (US), etc.

Other cases

UNITED STATES 294

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

401

The court discusses the general conditions the Convention imposes on a petitioner for seeking recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award – namely, the submission of the original arbitration agreement or arbitral award or a certified copy thereof – and examines in general whether these conditions were complied in the case at issue.

Conditions to be fulfilled by petitioner in general

402

The court discusses how to determine whether the document supplied is an award capable of being recognized and enforced, including whether the award is duly authenticated, and whether a copy is duly certified; whether a prior interim and/or partial award should be supplied together with the final award.

Original or copy arbitral award

403

The court discusses issues relating to the requirement to supply the original arbitration agreement or a copy thereof to prove the prima facie validity of the arbitration agreement, as well as the application of more favorable municipal laws that do not provide for this requirement.

Original or copy arbitration agreement

501

The court discusses questions relating to the general approach taken by the Convention to the grounds for refusal of recognition and enforcement, including its pro-enforcement bias, as well as the system of the Convention, under which recognition and enforcement may only be denied on seven listed grounds and the petitioner has only the obligations set out in Art. IV.

Grounds are exhaustive

502

The court discusses the principle that the merits of the award may not be reviewed and that the court may only carry out a limited review of the award to ascertain grounds for refusal.

No re-examination of the merits of the arbitral award

503

The court discusses the burden of proof of the grounds for refusing enforcement under the Convention.

Burden of proof on respondent
1998 Australia

Excerpt Topics

AUSTRALIA 15

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

202

The court discusses the form in which the arbitration agreement is expressed: short form arbitration clause, reference to rules of institution, etc.

Contents of arbitration agreement

214-216 Field of application

514 Ground e: Award not binding, suspended or set aside - "Binding"
1998 Hong Kong

Excerpt Topics

HONG KONG 12

101

The court discusses the determination and relevance of the place where the award was made (in a foreign State or another contracting State.

Award made in the territory of another (Contracting) State (paragraphs 1 and 3 - first or "reciprocity" reservation)

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

303

The court discusses the conditions under which a party may be estopped from raising a ground for refusal of enforcement under the Convention or has waived the right to raise it.

Estoppel/waiver

500

The court discusses the overall scheme and/or pro-enforcement bias of the Convention.

Grounds for refusal of enforcement in general

511

Due process: The court discusses various irregularities affecting due process, including letters not sent, names of arbitrators or experts not communicated, language of proceedings and communications, etc.

"Otherwise unable to present his case"

516

Award not binding, suspended or set aside: The court discusses the difference between the exclusive jurisdiction to set aside an award (primary jurisdiction), which belongs to the courts of the country of origin of the award, and the jurisdiction of all other courts to recognize and enforce the award (secondary jurisdiction); issues relating to the determination of the “competent authority”; and whether an award that has been set aside in the country of origin can be enforced in another State under the Convention.

"Set aside"

518

Public policy: The court discusses the meaning of (international as compared to domestic) public policy, generally defined as the basic notions of morality and justice of the enforcement State.

Paragraph 2 - Distinction domestic-international public policy
1997 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 261

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

516

Award not binding, suspended or set aside: The court discusses the difference between the exclusive jurisdiction to set aside an award (primary jurisdiction), which belongs to the courts of the country of origin of the award, and the jurisdiction of all other courts to recognize and enforce the award (secondary jurisdiction); issues relating to the determination of the “competent authority”; and whether an award that has been set aside in the country of origin can be enforced in another State under the Convention.

"Set aside"

UNITED STATES 255

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

105

The court discusses issues relating to the quality of the parties, as physical or legal persons against whom enforcement of an arbitral award is sought, including the incapacity of a State to enter into an arbitration agreement, and questions relating to sovereign immunity. For the related defenses to enforcement, see Art. V(1)(a).

"Persons, whether physical or legal" (paragraph 1) (including sovereign immunity)

107

The court discusses the relevance and determination of the commercial nature of the relationship underlying the award, including in the context of contractual and non-contractual relations.

Second reservation ("commercial reservation") (paragraph 3)

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

307

The court discusses questions relating to interest on the amount due under the arbitral award, including whether the enforcement court may grant interest not granted in the award, modify interest granted in the award, and grant post-award interest.

Interest on award

523

Public policy: The court discusses alleged violations of a fundamental rule of due process in the arbitration on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, including the failure to communicate the names of the arbitrators, the failure to send copies of reports or letters filed in the arbitration, etc.

Irregularities in the arbitral procedure (see also Art. V(1)(b))

UNITED STATES 250

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

105

The court discusses issues relating to the quality of the parties, as physical or legal persons against whom enforcement of an arbitral award is sought, including the incapacity of a State to enter into an arbitration agreement, and questions relating to sovereign immunity. For the related defenses to enforcement, see Art. V(1)(a).

"Persons, whether physical or legal" (paragraph 1) (including sovereign immunity)

516

Award not binding, suspended or set aside: The court discusses the difference between the exclusive jurisdiction to set aside an award (primary jurisdiction), which belongs to the courts of the country of origin of the award, and the jurisdiction of all other courts to recognize and enforce the award (secondary jurisdiction); issues relating to the determination of the “competent authority”; and whether an award that has been set aside in the country of origin can be enforced in another State under the Convention.

"Set aside"

601

The court discusses the conditions for granting adjournment of a proceeding relating to the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, and the court’s discretionary power to do so, as well the determination of “suitable security” and the power to request it.

Adjournment of decision on enforcement

UNITED STATES 238

101

The court discusses the determination and relevance of the place where the award was made (in a foreign State or another contracting State.

Award made in the territory of another (Contracting) State (paragraphs 1 and 3 - first or "reciprocity" reservation)

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

104

The court discusses whether the Convention applies to domestic arbitration and to proceedings for the setting aside of domestic awards.

Convention's applicability in other cases

306

The court discusses the applicable period of limitation for seeking enforcement of an award.

Period of limitation for enforcement

702

More-favorable right provision: The court discusses examples of domestic laws of countries where enforcement of foreign awards is more favorable.

Domestic law on enforcement of foreign award
1996 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 236

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

227

Multi-party disputes: The court discusses whether related court proceedings may absorb (by vis atractiva) arbitration proceedings.

Concurrent court proceedings ("indivisibility")

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

503

The court discusses the burden of proof of the grounds for refusing enforcement under the Convention.

Burden of proof on respondent

520

Public policy:The court discusses the consequences of the default of a party in the arbitration on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award against it.

Ground b: Public policy - Default of party

UNITED STATES 222

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

104

The court discusses whether the Convention applies to domestic arbitration and to proceedings for the setting aside of domestic awards.

Convention's applicability in other cases

502

The court discusses the principle that the merits of the award may not be reviewed and that the court may only carry out a limited review of the award to ascertain grounds for refusal.

No re-examination of the merits of the arbitral award

518

Public policy: The court discusses the meaning of (international as compared to domestic) public policy, generally defined as the basic notions of morality and justice of the enforcement State.

Paragraph 2 - Distinction domestic-international public policy

524

Public policy: The court discusses the effect of other alleged violations of public policy on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, such as contradictory reasons, manifest disregard of the law (US), etc.

Other cases
1994 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 195

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

401

The court discusses the general conditions the Convention imposes on a petitioner for seeking recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award – namely, the submission of the original arbitration agreement or arbitral award or a certified copy thereof – and examines in general whether these conditions were complied in the case at issue.

Conditions to be fulfilled by petitioner in general

UNITED STATES 194

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

307

The court discusses questions relating to interest on the amount due under the arbitral award, including whether the enforcement court may grant interest not granted in the award, modify interest granted in the award, and grant post-award interest.

Interest on award

UNITED STATES 185

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

104

The court discusses whether the Convention applies to domestic arbitration and to proceedings for the setting aside of domestic awards.

Convention's applicability in other cases

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

512 Ground c: Excess by arbitrator of his authority - Excess of authority

516

Award not binding, suspended or set aside: The court discusses the difference between the exclusive jurisdiction to set aside an award (primary jurisdiction), which belongs to the courts of the country of origin of the award, and the jurisdiction of all other courts to recognize and enforce the award (secondary jurisdiction); issues relating to the determination of the “competent authority”; and whether an award that has been set aside in the country of origin can be enforced in another State under the Convention.

"Set aside"

521

Public policy: The court discusses the consequences of the apparent or actual bias of an arbitrator on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award.

Lack of impartiality of arbitrator

524

Public policy: The court discusses the effect of other alleged violations of public policy on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, such as contradictory reasons, manifest disregard of the law (US), etc.

Other cases

601

The court discusses the conditions for granting adjournment of a proceeding relating to the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, and the court’s discretionary power to do so, as well the determination of “suitable security” and the power to request it.

Adjournment of decision on enforcement

UNITED STATES 184

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

106

The court discusses issues relating to the identity of the party against whom enforcement of the arbitral award is sought, including: piercing of the corporate veil, succession, assignment, State or State entity, group of companies, agent or principal, etc. For the related defenses to enforcement, see Art. V(1)(a).

Problems concerning the identity of a party

704(A) Panama Convention of 1975
1993 Luxembourg

Excerpt Topics

LUXEMBOURG 1
Cour d’Appel, 24 November 1993 (Kersa Holding Company Luxembourg v. Infancourtage, et al.)

101

The court discusses the determination and relevance of the place where the award was made (in a foreign State or another contracting State.

Award made in the territory of another (Contracting) State (paragraphs 1 and 3 - first or "reciprocity" reservation)

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

103

The court discusses the impact of the nationality of the parties on the application of the Convention.

Nationality of the parties no criterion

304

The court discusses the admissibility of a set off or counterclaim in enforcement proceedings under the Convention.

Set-off/counterclaim

401

The court discusses the general conditions the Convention imposes on a petitioner for seeking recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award – namely, the submission of the original arbitration agreement or arbitral award or a certified copy thereof – and examines in general whether these conditions were complied in the case at issue.

Conditions to be fulfilled by petitioner in general

501

The court discusses questions relating to the general approach taken by the Convention to the grounds for refusal of recognition and enforcement, including its pro-enforcement bias, as well as the system of the Convention, under which recognition and enforcement may only be denied on seven listed grounds and the petitioner has only the obligations set out in Art. IV.

Grounds are exhaustive

502

The court discusses the principle that the merits of the award may not be reviewed and that the court may only carry out a limited review of the award to ascertain grounds for refusal.

No re-examination of the merits of the arbitral award

503

The court discusses the burden of proof of the grounds for refusing enforcement under the Convention.

Burden of proof on respondent

508 Ground b: Violation of due process in general

518

Public policy: The court discusses the meaning of (international as compared to domestic) public policy, generally defined as the basic notions of morality and justice of the enforcement State.

Paragraph 2 - Distinction domestic-international public policy

524

Public policy: The court discusses the effect of other alleged violations of public policy on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, such as contradictory reasons, manifest disregard of the law (US), etc.

Other cases

601

The court discusses the conditions for granting adjournment of a proceeding relating to the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, and the court’s discretionary power to do so, as well the determination of “suitable security” and the power to request it.

Adjournment of decision on enforcement
1993 India

Excerpt Topics

INDIA 26

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

201

The court discusses whether the dispute falls within the wording of the arbitration agreement; and whether claims in tort fall within the scope of the agreement.

Scope of arbitration agreement

214-216 Field of application

217

The court discusses the meaning and effect of the referral of the resolution of disputes to arbitration, including: who can ask for referral and when, whether a party has waived its right to request arbitration, the defense that there was no contract at all; whether there was a condition precedent to the commencement of arbitration (e.g. mediation), stay of proceedings v. compelling arbitration, and national procedural specificities such as remand and removal (US), effect of class action. etc.

Referral to arbitration in general

218

The court discusses whether referral of the resolution of disputes to arbitration is mandatory under the Convention and whether mandatory referral is an internationally uniform rule which supersedes municipal law.

Referral is mandatory

219

The court discusses how to determine that there is a dispute as a condition for referral to arbitration.

There must be a dispute

702

More-favorable right provision: The court discusses examples of domestic laws of countries where enforcement of foreign awards is more favorable.

Domestic law on enforcement of foreign award
1993 United Kingdom

Excerpt Topics

UK 41

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

214-216 Field of application

220

The court discusses how to interpret the Convention’s requirement that the agreement is not null and void etc., as well as specific cases of invalidity: e.g., lack of consent (misrepresentation, duress, or fraud), vague wording of the arbitral clause; other terms of the contract contradict the intention to arbitrate, etc.

"Null and void", etc.

221

The court discusses which law – lex fori, lex contractus, law of the State where the award will be made – applies specifically to determining whether an agreement to arbitrate is “null and void etc.“, and, by extension, which law applies to determining the validity of arbitration agreements.

Law applicable to "Null and void", etc. (for formal validity and applicable law, see Art. II, Â¶204)
1991 United Kingdom

Excerpt Topics

UK 32

101

The court discusses the determination and relevance of the place where the award was made (in a foreign State or another contracting State.

Award made in the territory of another (Contracting) State (paragraphs 1 and 3 - first or "reciprocity" reservation)

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

516

Award not binding, suspended or set aside: The court discusses the difference between the exclusive jurisdiction to set aside an award (primary jurisdiction), which belongs to the courts of the country of origin of the award, and the jurisdiction of all other courts to recognize and enforce the award (secondary jurisdiction); issues relating to the determination of the “competent authority”; and whether an award that has been set aside in the country of origin can be enforced in another State under the Convention.

"Set aside"

601

The court discusses the conditions for granting adjournment of a proceeding relating to the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, and the court’s discretionary power to do so, as well the determination of “suitable security” and the power to request it.

Adjournment of decision on enforcement
1991 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 125

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

104

The court discusses whether the Convention applies to domestic arbitration and to proceedings for the setting aside of domestic awards.

Convention's applicability in other cases

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

306

The court discusses the applicable period of limitation for seeking enforcement of an award.

Period of limitation for enforcement

307

The court discusses questions relating to interest on the amount due under the arbitral award, including whether the enforcement court may grant interest not granted in the award, modify interest granted in the award, and grant post-award interest.

Interest on award

501

The court discusses questions relating to the general approach taken by the Convention to the grounds for refusal of recognition and enforcement, including its pro-enforcement bias, as well as the system of the Convention, under which recognition and enforcement may only be denied on seven listed grounds and the petitioner has only the obligations set out in Art. IV.

Grounds are exhaustive

503

The court discusses the burden of proof of the grounds for refusing enforcement under the Convention.

Burden of proof on respondent

518

Public policy: The court discusses the meaning of (international as compared to domestic) public policy, generally defined as the basic notions of morality and justice of the enforcement State.

Paragraph 2 - Distinction domestic-international public policy

522

Public policy: The court discusses the consequences of the lack of reasons in the award on its recognition and enforcement.

Lack of reasons in award

524

Public policy: The court discusses the effect of other alleged violations of public policy on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, such as contradictory reasons, manifest disregard of the law (US), etc.

Other cases
1990 Switzerland

Excerpt Topics

SWITZERLAND 23

101

The court discusses the determination and relevance of the place where the award was made (in a foreign State or another contracting State.

Award made in the territory of another (Contracting) State (paragraphs 1 and 3 - first or "reciprocity" reservation)

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

518

Public policy: The court discusses the meaning of (international as compared to domestic) public policy, generally defined as the basic notions of morality and justice of the enforcement State.

Paragraph 2 - Distinction domestic-international public policy

521

Public policy: The court discusses the consequences of the apparent or actual bias of an arbitrator on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award.

Lack of impartiality of arbitrator

523

Public policy: The court discusses alleged violations of a fundamental rule of due process in the arbitration on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, including the failure to communicate the names of the arbitrators, the failure to send copies of reports or letters filed in the arbitration, etc.

Irregularities in the arbitral procedure (see also Art. V(1)(b))
1989 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 100

101

The court discusses the determination and relevance of the place where the award was made (in a foreign State or another contracting State.

Award made in the territory of another (Contracting) State (paragraphs 1 and 3 - first or "reciprocity" reservation)

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

109

The court discusses whether an “a-national” award falls under the Convention.

Arbitral award: "a-national" award

111

The court discusses the application of the Convention to awards rendered by permanent arbitral bodies (as opposed to ad hoc awards).

Permanent arbitral bodies (paragraph 2)

114

The court discusses whether awards rendered by the Iran-US Claims Tribunal fall under the Convention.

Iran-US Claims Tribunal

301

The court discusses the principle that the procedure for the enforcement of awards under the Convention is governed by the lex fori, as well as procedural issues (such as the competent enforcement court) not falling under the specific cases of ¶¶ 302-307.

Procedure for enforcement in general

403

The court discusses issues relating to the requirement to supply the original arbitration agreement or a copy thereof to prove the prima facie validity of the arbitration agreement, as well as the application of more favorable municipal laws that do not provide for this requirement.

Original or copy arbitration agreement

507

Invalidity of the arbitration agreement: The court discusses other cases of invalidity of the arbitration agreement, including that there was no agreement at all or that the party was not a signatory thereto, that the incorrect arbitral institution was chosen, etc.

Miscellaneous cases regarding the arbitration agreement

513 Ground d: Irregularity in the composition of the arbitral tribunal or arbitral procedure

UNITED STATES 239

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

106

The court discusses issues relating to the identity of the party against whom enforcement of the arbitral award is sought, including: piercing of the corporate veil, succession, assignment, State or State entity, group of companies, agent or principal, etc. For the related defenses to enforcement, see Art. V(1)(a).

Problems concerning the identity of a party

226

Multi-party disputes: The court discusses under which conditions non-signatories are covered by an arbitration agreement entered into by another party.

Third parties (see also Art. I sub F "problems concerning the identity of the respondent", Â¶106)

502

The court discusses the principle that the merits of the award may not be reviewed and that the court may only carry out a limited review of the award to ascertain grounds for refusal.

No re-examination of the merits of the arbitral award

507

Invalidity of the arbitration agreement: The court discusses other cases of invalidity of the arbitration agreement, including that there was no agreement at all or that the party was not a signatory thereto, that the incorrect arbitral institution was chosen, etc.

Miscellaneous cases regarding the arbitration agreement

512 Ground c: Excess by arbitrator of his authority - Excess of authority

513 Ground d: Irregularity in the composition of the arbitral tribunal or arbitral procedure

UNITED STATES 105

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

514 Ground e: Award not binding, suspended or set aside - "Binding"

UNITED STATES 97

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

107

The court discusses the relevance and determination of the commercial nature of the relationship underlying the award, including in the context of contractual and non-contractual relations.

Second reservation ("commercial reservation") (paragraph 3)

201

The court discusses whether the dispute falls within the wording of the arbitration agreement; and whether claims in tort fall within the scope of the agreement.

Scope of arbitration agreement

214-216 Field of application

217

The court discusses the meaning and effect of the referral of the resolution of disputes to arbitration, including: who can ask for referral and when, whether a party has waived its right to request arbitration, the defense that there was no contract at all; whether there was a condition precedent to the commencement of arbitration (e.g. mediation), stay of proceedings v. compelling arbitration, and national procedural specificities such as remand and removal (US), effect of class action. etc.

Referral to arbitration in general

223

The court discusses whether a certain dispute could be settled by arbitration, and the law applicable to that determination.

Arbitrability (see also Art. V(2) sub ground a. "arbitrability", ¶519)

518

Public policy: The court discusses the meaning of (international as compared to domestic) public policy, generally defined as the basic notions of morality and justice of the enforcement State.

Paragraph 2 - Distinction domestic-international public policy

524

Public policy: The court discusses the effect of other alleged violations of public policy on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, such as contradictory reasons, manifest disregard of the law (US), etc.

Other cases
1988 Germany

Excerpt Topics

GERMANY 33

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

509

Due process: The court discusses what constitutes “proper notice” of the appointment of the arbitrators or of the arbitration proceedings.

"Proper notice"

513 Ground d: Irregularity in the composition of the arbitral tribunal or arbitral procedure

514 Ground e: Award not binding, suspended or set aside - "Binding"

523

Public policy: The court discusses alleged violations of a fundamental rule of due process in the arbitration on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, including the failure to communicate the names of the arbitrators, the failure to send copies of reports or letters filed in the arbitration, etc.

Irregularities in the arbitral procedure (see also Art. V(1)(b))

704(B) Bilateral Treaties
1984 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 66

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)
1983 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 54

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

109

The court discusses whether an “a-national” award falls under the Convention.

Arbitral award: "a-national" award

306

The court discusses the applicable period of limitation for seeking enforcement of an award.

Period of limitation for enforcement

404

The court discusses issues relating to the manner of authentication and certification of the award and/or arbitration agreement.

Authentication and certification
1981 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 49

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

518

Public policy: The court discusses the meaning of (international as compared to domestic) public policy, generally defined as the basic notions of morality and justice of the enforcement State.

Paragraph 2 - Distinction domestic-international public policy
1979 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 45

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

UNITED STATES 44

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

104

The court discusses whether the Convention applies to domestic arbitration and to proceedings for the setting aside of domestic awards.

Convention's applicability in other cases
1978 Germany

Excerpt Topics

GERMANY 19

101

The court discusses the determination and relevance of the place where the award was made (in a foreign State or another contracting State.

Award made in the territory of another (Contracting) State (paragraphs 1 and 3 - first or "reciprocity" reservation)

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

110

The court discusses the definition of “arbitral award”, and the application of the Convention to the various types of award, including awards on specific performance, awards enjoining a party from certain conduct, declaratory awards, etc. Also, whether preliminary, partial, interim, interlocutory awards, and awards by consent can be enforced under the Convention.

Arbitral award: types

208

The court discusses arbitration agreements contained in a sales and purchase confirmation and whether a tacit acceptance thereof is sufficient.

Sales or purchase confirmation

401

The court discusses the general conditions the Convention imposes on a petitioner for seeking recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award – namely, the submission of the original arbitration agreement or arbitral award or a certified copy thereof – and examines in general whether these conditions were complied in the case at issue.

Conditions to be fulfilled by petitioner in general

403

The court discusses issues relating to the requirement to supply the original arbitration agreement or a copy thereof to prove the prima facie validity of the arbitration agreement, as well as the application of more favorable municipal laws that do not provide for this requirement.

Original or copy arbitration agreement

523

Public policy: The court discusses alleged violations of a fundamental rule of due process in the arbitration on the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award, including the failure to communicate the names of the arbitrators, the failure to send copies of reports or letters filed in the arbitration, etc.

Irregularities in the arbitral procedure (see also Art. V(1)(b))

702

More-favorable right provision: The court discusses examples of domestic laws of countries where enforcement of foreign awards is more favorable.

Domestic law on enforcement of foreign award
1978 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 34

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)
1976 Germany

Excerpt Topics

GERMANY 12

101

The court discusses the determination and relevance of the place where the award was made (in a foreign State or another contracting State.

Award made in the territory of another (Contracting) State (paragraphs 1 and 3 - first or "reciprocity" reservation)

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

209 Incorporation by reference and standard conditions

506

Invalidity of the arbitration agreement: The court discusses the law applicable to the validity of the arbitration agreement at the enforcement stage.

Law applicable to the arbitration agreement

512 Ground c: Excess by arbitrator of his authority - Excess of authority

516

Award not binding, suspended or set aside: The court discusses the difference between the exclusive jurisdiction to set aside an award (primary jurisdiction), which belongs to the courts of the country of origin of the award, and the jurisdiction of all other courts to recognize and enforce the award (secondary jurisdiction); issues relating to the determination of the “competent authority”; and whether an award that has been set aside in the country of origin can be enforced in another State under the Convention.

"Set aside"

702

More-favorable right provision: The court discusses examples of domestic laws of countries where enforcement of foreign awards is more favorable.

Domestic law on enforcement of foreign award
1974 United States

Excerpt Topics

UNITED STATES 2

102

The court discusses which awards are considered non-domestic even if rendered in the State of enforcement (international element, lex mercatoria).

Arbitral award not considered as domestic (paragraph 1)

104

The court discusses whether the Convention applies to domestic arbitration and to proceedings for the setting aside of domestic awards.

Convention's applicability in other cases

305

The court discusses the applicability of this requirement under (domestic) US law – that parties must have expressed in the arbitration agreement their consent that judgment of the court shall be entered upon the award –in respect of Convention awards.

Entry of judgment clause

502

The court discusses the principle that the merits of the award may not be reviewed and that the court may only carry out a limited review of the award to ascertain grounds for refusal.

No re-examination of the merits of the arbitral award

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