17 Switzerland

Subject(s):

Arbitral rules — Arbitral agreements — Recognition and enforcement — Awards — Place of arbitration

This chapter evaluates the merits of Switzerland as a venue for international arbitration proceedings. It discusses the history and development of arbitration in Switzerland; the processes and rules involved as well as the role of courts in the conduct of arbitration proceedings; and rules for arbitral awards. Switzerland is one of the preferred venues for international arbitration due to its neutrality, central location in Europe, multi-lingual and multi-cultural environment, established infrastructure, experienced bar with a long tradition of comparative law, prominent scholars who contribute to the development of international arbitration theory and practice, and the dynamic Swiss Arbitration Association (ASA). Given this thriving environment and its combined tradition and history of arbitration, Switzerland will continue to foster and contribute to the development of international arbitration as the preferred means of dispute resolution in commercial matters.