Gary Born Kristina Bittner CADRA Arbitration: Unpack Key Principles

• Gary Born and Kristina Bittner delivered the opening session at the CADRA International Arbitration Summer School 2026.
• Their presentation offered an introduction to international arbitration, covering various foundational topics.
• Key areas discussed included cross-border practice, legal cultures, the New York Convention, and the UNCITRAL Model Law.
• The session also explored institutional arbitration, arbitration agreements, and career opportunities for young practitioners.

Their joint presentation served as a foundational introduction to the complex and evolving field of international arbitration, setting a comprehensive tone for the educational program.

The CADRA International Arbitration Summer School 2026 commenced with a significant opening session, featuring prominent figures Gary Born and Kristina Bittner. Their joint presentation served as a foundational introduction to the complex and evolving field of international arbitration, setting a comprehensive tone for the educational program.

This introductory segment was designed to equip attendees with a broad understanding of the discipline, covering essential concepts and frameworks that underpin global dispute resolution. The involvement of Born and Bittner underscored the academic rigor and practical relevance intended for the summer school participants from the outset.

During their address, Born and Bittner meticulously explored several critical dimensions of international arbitration. A central theme involved the intricacies of cross-border practice, emphasizing the unique challenges and considerations that arise when disputes span multiple jurisdictions and legal systems. This discussion naturally extended to the crucial role of understanding diverse legal cultures, a factor often pivotal in shaping arbitral proceedings and outcomes.

The session also delved into the foundational international instruments that govern arbitration worldwide. Specific attention was given to the New York Convention, a cornerstone treaty facilitating the enforcement of arbitral awards across borders, and the UNCITRAL Model Law, which provides a widely adopted legislative framework for national arbitration laws. Furthermore, the speakers elucidated the distinctions and advantages of institutional arbitration, where disputes are administered by specialized bodies, and examined the fundamental importance and drafting considerations of arbitration agreements, which legally bind parties to resolve their disputes through arbitration.

Beyond the theoretical and procedural aspects, the introductory session by Gary Born and Kristina Bittner also focused on the practical implications for emerging legal talent. They specifically addressed the array of career opportunities available to young practitioners within the dynamic and expanding domain of international arbitration.

This segment provided valuable guidance for aspiring professionals, highlighting how a deep understanding of the discussed topics—from cross-border practice to international conventions—is essential for building a successful career in this specialized legal field. The emphasis on professional pathways underscored the summer school's commitment to nurturing the next generation of international arbitration experts.

Source: Original reporting via SCC Times