Investment Law & Policy

IISD's experts examine how to improve the rules and institutions that govern international investment flows for the benefit of emerging economies, and publish independent, high-quality and impactful research. Building on our expertise and pioneering role, we propose viable alternatives to some of the most burning issues within international investment.

We provide workshops, training, and advisory services to government officials and civil society actors across a wide range of developing economies. IISD hosts the annual Investment Policy Forum - a unique event that brings together investment officials from emerging economies across the world and has created a truly global network for change.

IISD's team of experts track and support key reform processes within international investment law to ensure robust sustainability outcomes. We are leading the way in reforming how disputes are settled under investment treaties - a process known as investor-state dispute settlement (ISDS).

This includes being a member of the United Nations Conference on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) process for ISDS reform and our instrumental role on reform of the Energy Charter Treaty, where we are proposing the removal of one of the key remaining obstacles to the green energy transition.

We are a founding member of the World Investment for Development Alliance (WIDA), a global platform dedicated to promoting investment for sustainable development.