The Arbitrator between the Duty of Impartiality and the Duty of Disclosure:
Reflections on the Legitimacy of the Standard and the Risk of Extremism in Its Application

The Cairo Regional Centre for International Commercial Arbitration (CRCICA) proudly presents a distinguished lecture by Justice Professor Georges Affaki, an eminent authority in international arbitration. Taking place on Tuesday, 4 February 2025, this event features an in-depth exploration of a timely and thought-provoking topic: “The Arbitrator between the Duty of Impartiality and the Duty of Disclosure: Reflections on the Legitimacy of the Standard and the Risk of Extremism in Its Application.” The lecture is moderated by Dr. Ismail Selim, Director of CRCICA, Professor Affaki draws on his extensive experience in international arbitration and judicial practice to shed light on the delicate balance between the duties of impartiality and independence, cornerstones of an arbitrator’s role, and the standing duty of disclosure. Through a critical lens, he reviews recent court decisions that have sparked intense debate and shaken legal certainty, the essential linchpin of the arbitral process.

The lecturer shall offer a comprehensive analysis of the current trend toward an ever stricter interpretation of the disclosure dutie, highlighting the challenges posed by divergent judicial approaches in the absence of a unified international standard. Professor Affaki shall evaluate the far-reaching implications of these developments on arbitration awards, as well as on the liability of arbitrators and arbitral institutions, providing a nuanced perspective that is both timely and impactful for arbitration practitioners, academics, and policymakers.