Consultations on a Concerted Response to COVID-19 Related ISDS Risks
In May 2020, IISD conducted virtual consultations on a concerted response to the risk of investor-state dispute settlement (ISDS) challenges to COVID-19 related measures.
The consultations sought views on the idea of a multilateral or bilateral suspension of ISDS for COVID-19 related measures and discussed potential forums to take up such an initiative. IISD also sought inputs on draft language for such a suspension. The first consultation draft is available here:
Draft agreement for the coordinated suspension of investor-state dispute settlement with respect to COVID-19 related measures and disputes (May 2020): in English, French, and Spanish.
In June 2020, IISD revised the draft language for a suspension agreement to reflect verbal comments and written submissions provided by developing country investment negotiators, international law experts, and civil society organizations during the consultation period.
Draft agreement for the coordinated suspension of investor-state dispute settlement with respect to COVID-19 related measures and disputes (June 2020): in English, French, and Spanish.
IISD is continuing to work with governments, regional economic communities, and other partners to raise awareness of this threat and provide options for how it can be mitigated.
Upcoming events
Inside the First Conference on Transitioning Away from Fossil Fuels
Governments from 60 countries are meeting in Santa Marta, Colombia, to advance the transition away from fossil fuels.
2026 Investment Policy Forum
The 17th edition of IISD's Investment Policy Forum will take place from September 16 to 18, 2026, in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Unpacking National Investment Laws: Dispute settlement
Join IISD and UNCTAD for a webinar on May 7 as we explore key findings and recommendations from two recent publications on national investment laws and their investor–state dispute settlement provisions. A panel of experts will discuss the risks posed by dispute settlement provisions in investment laws, emerging good practices, and the urgent need for coherence between domestic legal frameworks and international treaty reform efforts.
AQUA-Pearl Quality Assurance Stakeholder Meeting
How can Quality Assurance protocols and Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points inform health and trade requirements for bivalve aquaculture in Fiji?