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Event Overview
Bruges: Old Stones, New Orders
Legal Strategies to Adapt to Political and Economic Shifts
In a time of profound international shifts, the balance between economic resilience, technological innovation, and the protection of individual rights is becoming increasingly delicate.
Held at the very heart of the European Union in Bruges, this conference offers a timely forum to examine the legal complexities emerging from today’s rapidly changing world. As industries confront geopolitical tensions, regulatory upheavals, and the accelerating pace of digital transformation, legal practitioners are being called upon to provide clarity and leadership in uncharted territory.
From navigating the challenges posed by fragmented international markets to addressing the ethical and legal dimensions of advanced technologies, the program brings together young lawyers, legal minds, decision-makers, and industry voices, all ready to tackle the challenges ahead.
Beyond the academic programme, the conference will be enriched by a memorable social agenda set against the backdrop of Bruges—one of Europe’s most charming and culturally rich cities. With its fairytale canals, cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and world-famous chocolate and beer, Bruges offers the perfect setting to connect, unwind, and be inspired. Attendees will enjoy a carefully curated social programme that blends cultural experiences with networking opportunities, allowing participants to explore this UNESCO World Heritage city while forging meaningful professional connections. From elegant receptions to local tastings and a spectacular gala evening, the Bruges experience promises to be as enriching socially as it is intellectually.
ACADEMIC PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in in-depth discussions across two focused tracks, designed to address the most pressing legal issues of our time.
Track 1: The New Economy – Legal Challenges in Times of Change
What happens when the “global” economy starts to fragment? As political tensions rise, supply chains shift, and protectionist policies take hold, lawyers are increasingly called upon to guide clients through a world that no longer plays by the same rules.
This track delves into the legal tools and strategies needed to navigate uncertainty in cross-border M&A, real estate, finance, and private wealth. Panels will explore how sanctions, regulatory developments, and political instability are reshaping deal-making, compliance, and dispute resolution—offering insights into how legal professionals can adapt and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving economic landscape.
Track 2: In the Crossfire – Technology, Law, and the Defense of Freedoms
In an era marked by world-wide uncertainty, powerful technologies can become weapons in geopolitics and law. Within this evolving landscape, for example, algorithmic control and surveillance have gained particular significance, presenting serious risks to fundamental rights such as personal autonomy and privacy.
Moreover, we are witnessing a growing conflict as some nations impose technological embargoes on others. These actions can limit access to critical innovations, patents, and proprietary software, thereby hindering global trade and innovation while raising concerns over intellectual property rights. Such tech-related conflicts also have far-reaching consequences from a cybersecurity perspective, particularly in efforts to circumvent the embargoes, as well as impacting cryptocurrency, banking, and financial regulations.
This track will explore how legal professionals can navigate this technological battlefield, while safeguarding freedoms, dignity, and democratic values in an increasingly interconnected world.
AIJA Commissions involved
- Antitrust
- Banking, Finance and Capital Markets
- Business Crime and Civil Fraud
- Corporate and M&A
- Healthcare and Life Sciences
- Insolvency
- Intellectual Property, Technology, Media, and Telecommunications
- International Arbitration
- International Business Law (+ Sports Law)
- Labour Law (+ Immigration Law)
- Litigation
- Public Procurement Law
- T.R.A.D.E. (Trade, Retail, Agency, Distribution, E-commerce)
- Transport and Logistics Law
Diamond
Emerald
Silver
Bronze
Track #1: The New Economy – Legal Challenges in Times of Change
13:00 - 18:00
Address: Beursplein 1, 8000 Bruges, Belgium
09:00 - 09:20
Welcome Address by AIJA President Arthur Stüssi
09:20 - 10:45
Organised by Skills, Career, Innovation, Leadership and Learning (SCILL) and In-House Counsel Boards
The rise of generative AI and legal automation tools is forcing law firms and in-house counsel to rethink how legal work is done and how it’s valued. But behind the tech lie harder, strategic questions: how do you compare AI products with overlapping features? Can automation reduce staffing needs or justredistribute work? Should AI-enhanced output be billed differently? And how do clients perceive these tools: as value-added or mere cost-cutting?
At the same time, in an increasingly competitive legal market, firms are under pressure to stand out in both private and public tenders. Smart pricing strategies -such as contingency, capped, or blended fees - remain essential, but AI can also play a role in shaping more compelling proposals. From analysing past matters to modelling cost scenarios and improving fee transparency, intelligent tools can help firms design pricing that is both competitive and aligned with client expectations. The challenge is aligning innovation with what clients actually value: results, transparency, and trust.
Bringing together tech-savvy lawyers, law firm leaders, and in-house counsel, this session will explore:
The rise of generative AI and legal automation tools is forcing law firms and in-house counsel to rethink how legal work is done and how it’s valued. But behind the tech lie harder, strategic questions: how do you compare AI products with overlapping features? Can automation reduce staffing needs or justredistribute work? Should AI-enhanced output be billed differently? And how do clients perceive these tools: as value-added or mere cost-cutting?
At the same time, in an increasingly competitive legal market, firms are under pressure to stand out in both private and public tenders. Smart pricing strategies -such as contingency, capped, or blended fees - remain essential, but AI can also play a role in shaping more compelling proposals. From analysing past matters to modelling cost scenarios and improving fee transparency, intelligent tools can help firms design pricing that is both competitive and aligned with client expectations. The challenge is aligning innovation with what clients actually value: results, transparency, and trust.
Bringing together tech-savvy lawyers, law firm leaders, and in-house counsel, this session will explore:
- Vendor selection: how to assess and compare legal AI tools
- Billing models: should clients pay for the tool, the time, or the result?
- Tendering strategy: aligning pricing, process, and tech in proposals
- Workforce implications: are junior roles being automated or evolving?
- Risk management: addressing hallucinations, bias, GDPR, andconfidentiality
- Client perception: transparency, trust, and the value of innovation.
11:15 - 12:30
Organised by Transport and Logistics Law, Intellectual Property, Technology, Media, and Telecommunications (IPTMT) and Public Procurement Law (PPL) Commissions
As European nations increasingly invest in drone technologies through joint defense initiatives, the legal landscape around dual-use capabilities becomes more complex. This panel explores the intersection of public procurement, intellectual property protection, and regulatory coordination in transnational drone alliances. Particular attention will be paid to the legal frameworks enabling defence-funded drone innovations to transition into civilian applications while safeguarding sensitive technologies.
The discussion will also address how cross-border collaboration impacts liability, standardisation, and compliance with both EU and national security laws.
Lawyers advising governments, contractors, or tech firms must navigate thisevolving space where innovation, defence, and civil use converge.
As European nations increasingly invest in drone technologies through joint defense initiatives, the legal landscape around dual-use capabilities becomes more complex. This panel explores the intersection of public procurement, intellectual property protection, and regulatory coordination in transnational drone alliances. Particular attention will be paid to the legal frameworks enabling defence-funded drone innovations to transition into civilian applications while safeguarding sensitive technologies.
The discussion will also address how cross-border collaboration impacts liability, standardisation, and compliance with both EU and national security laws.
Lawyers advising governments, contractors, or tech firms must navigate thisevolving space where innovation, defence, and civil use converge.
14:00 - 15:00
Organised by Corporate and M&A and Insolvency Commissions
The globalisation model that once drove international business expansion is under pressure. Rising economic nationalism, trade wars, and protectionist regulations are prompting multinationals to rethink and, in some cases, dismantle long-established cross-border structures. What were once integrated global groups are now being fragmented - voluntarily or under pressure - into more localised, jurisdiction-specific entities.
This panel, jointly organised by the Corporate and M&A Commission and the Insolvency Commission, will explore how lawyers are navigating the legal, financial and operational consequences of forced or strategic de-integration in response to geopolitical shifts.
Topics to be addressed include:
The globalisation model that once drove international business expansion is under pressure. Rising economic nationalism, trade wars, and protectionist regulations are prompting multinationals to rethink and, in some cases, dismantle long-established cross-border structures. What were once integrated global groups are now being fragmented - voluntarily or under pressure - into more localised, jurisdiction-specific entities.
This panel, jointly organised by the Corporate and M&A Commission and the Insolvency Commission, will explore how lawyers are navigating the legal, financial and operational consequences of forced or strategic de-integration in response to geopolitical shifts.
Topics to be addressed include:
- Corporate reorganisation strategies in reaction to trade tensions, localisation requirements, or market exit pressures.
- Legal structuring of spin-offs, divestitures, and operational carve-outs across multiple jurisdictions.
- Parent-subsidiary liability and creditor risks in fragmented groups.
- Governance challenges and fiduciary conflicts in dismantling global control models.
- Early signs of distress: how to integrate insolvency and restructuring planning into politically driven reorganisations.
- Case insights from industries most affected: tech, pharma, defence, and critical infrastructure.
15:30 - 16:30
Organised by Healthcare and Life Sciences Commission and T.R.A.D.E. (Trade, Retail, Agency, Distribution, E-commerce) Commissions
The COVID-19 pandemic exposed deep vulnerabilities in global medicine supply chains—and governments are responding. From the EU’s Critical Medicines Act and Pharma Package to the U.S.’s reshoring policies and price controls, we are witnessing a sharp pivot toward pharmaceutical protectionism. Lawyers advising companies in the life sciences sector now face a radically different landscape, where manufacturing incentives, export restrictions and geopolitical concerns are reshaping how and where medicines are developed, produced, and delivered.
This session will offer practical insights into how lawyers can advise clients facing mounting compliance risks, shifting regulatory regimes, and the need to rebuild resilient, lawful, and ethical supply chains for medicines in a fractured global economy.
The COVID-19 pandemic exposed deep vulnerabilities in global medicine supply chains—and governments are responding. From the EU’s Critical Medicines Act and Pharma Package to the U.S.’s reshoring policies and price controls, we are witnessing a sharp pivot toward pharmaceutical protectionism. Lawyers advising companies in the life sciences sector now face a radically different landscape, where manufacturing incentives, export restrictions and geopolitical concerns are reshaping how and where medicines are developed, produced, and delivered.
This session will offer practical insights into how lawyers can advise clients facing mounting compliance risks, shifting regulatory regimes, and the need to rebuild resilient, lawful, and ethical supply chains for medicines in a fractured global economy.
10:30 - 11:45
Organised by International Private Clients and Family, Tax Law Commissions
In an era of increased mobility, remote work, and global lifestyles, the definition of tax residency has become more contested than ever-raising complex questions not only about income taxation but also complex questions around inheritance, estate planning, divorce, and family governance. Tax authorities are stepping up efforts to challenge claimed residences, scrutinising substance over form and focusing on where individuals and businesses truly exercise their economic lives. This session explores how lawyers can navigate increasingly complex residency rules and defend their clients—private individuals, founders, digital nomads, globally dispersed families, or mobile executives—against challenges based on insufficient substance.
We will discuss recent trends in residency audits, evolving OECD guidance, and strategic structuring of residence and domicile to mitigate tax risks. Special focus will be placed on how shifting residency status impacts private clients with cross-border profiles, especially in the context of:
In an era of increased mobility, remote work, and global lifestyles, the definition of tax residency has become more contested than ever-raising complex questions not only about income taxation but also complex questions around inheritance, estate planning, divorce, and family governance. Tax authorities are stepping up efforts to challenge claimed residences, scrutinising substance over form and focusing on where individuals and businesses truly exercise their economic lives. This session explores how lawyers can navigate increasingly complex residency rules and defend their clients—private individuals, founders, digital nomads, globally dispersed families, or mobile executives—against challenges based on insufficient substance.
We will discuss recent trends in residency audits, evolving OECD guidance, and strategic structuring of residence and domicile to mitigate tax risks. Special focus will be placed on how shifting residency status impacts private clients with cross-border profiles, especially in the context of:
- Cross-border estate and succession planning under competing tax regimes.
- Domicile-driven inheritance, gift and matrimonial property tax exposure.
- Implications in divorce settlements and proceedings, impacts on spousal maintenance and asset division across borders.
- The impact of residency shifts on family governance and philanthropic structures.
- Challenges to trusts and holding structures tied to disputed residency.
- How courts and tax authorities interpret “effective” residence.
- The difference between tax residence and habitual residence, important implications regarding jurisdiction and applicable law in divorce and
- succession disputes.
- What documentary and economic substance is required to sustain residency claims?
- The role of double tax treaties and tie-breaker rules.
- Legal challenges in high-profile residency disputes.
- Strategic relocation planning in a more aggressive enforcement climate.
12:15 - 13:30
Organised by International Business Law (+ Sports Law) and Antitrust Commissions
The digital economy has disrupted traditional corporate and market models alike. Digital platforms are now central actors in the global economy, enabling companies to scale rapidly and to engage flexible cross-border structures. Yet this transformation raises complex legal challenges at the intersection of international business law and antitrust enforcement.
Companies face significant regulatory uncertainty as jurisdictions introduce new rules to govern digital platforms—ranging from transparency and algorithmic accountability to tax compliance and corporate governance. This raises a critical question: how should liability and governance be allocated in decentralised or hybrid organisational models?
At the same time, authorities are increasingly scrutinising platform practices such as market foreclosure, algorithmic self-preferencing, and abuse of dominance under antitrust frameworks.
This panel explores how cross-border platform activity is reshaping established notions of market access, corporate responsibility, fair competition, and how companies can mitigate legal risk while building agile, digital business models.
From antitrust and international business law perspectives, the panel will examine:
The digital economy has disrupted traditional corporate and market models alike. Digital platforms are now central actors in the global economy, enabling companies to scale rapidly and to engage flexible cross-border structures. Yet this transformation raises complex legal challenges at the intersection of international business law and antitrust enforcement.
Companies face significant regulatory uncertainty as jurisdictions introduce new rules to govern digital platforms—ranging from transparency and algorithmic accountability to tax compliance and corporate governance. This raises a critical question: how should liability and governance be allocated in decentralised or hybrid organisational models?
At the same time, authorities are increasingly scrutinising platform practices such as market foreclosure, algorithmic self-preferencing, and abuse of dominance under antitrust frameworks.
This panel explores how cross-border platform activity is reshaping established notions of market access, corporate responsibility, fair competition, and how companies can mitigate legal risk while building agile, digital business models.
From antitrust and international business law perspectives, the panel will examine:
- The extraterritorial effects of new platform regulations (e.g., the EU Digital Markets Act) and the challenges they pose for conflict of laws and
- international legal order.
- Corporate structuring, liability and governance challenges in multijurisdictional digital platform structures.
- The impact of platform dominance and algorithmic management on competition and market access.
- The interface between collective action by platform participants and antitrust rules.
- Cross-border platform contracts, questions of applicable law and enforceability in multilateral relationships.
- Best practices for ensuring compliance, fostering innovation, and mitigating cross-border legal risk.
- By highlighting emerging regulatory and enforcement trends across the EU, the Americas, and Asia, the panel will provide guidance on how legal professionals can help digital businesses grow sustainably—while staying ahead of legal and competitive risks.
14:30 - 15:45
Organised by Litigation and Business Crime and Civil Crime Commissions
In the global cyber battlefield, ransomware attacks have emerged as one of the most disruptive - and lucrative - forms of digital extortion. These attacks do not just paralyse systems; they create a cascade of legal, regulatory, and reputational crises for victims across borders. This session will examine the legal complexities of ransomware: from tracing crypto-ransom payments and coordinating with law enforcement and cross-border asset recovery. We will also explore the fine line between victim response and criminal liability, and how lawyers can help clients safeguard both operational resilience and fundamental freedoms in a world where technology is weaponised.
In the global cyber battlefield, ransomware attacks have emerged as one of the most disruptive - and lucrative - forms of digital extortion. These attacks do not just paralyse systems; they create a cascade of legal, regulatory, and reputational crises for victims across borders. This session will examine the legal complexities of ransomware: from tracing crypto-ransom payments and coordinating with law enforcement and cross-border asset recovery. We will also explore the fine line between victim response and criminal liability, and how lawyers can help clients safeguard both operational resilience and fundamental freedoms in a world where technology is weaponised.
10:00 - 11:00
11:30 - 13:00
Track #2: In the Crossfire – Technology, Law, and the Defense of Freedoms
13:00 - 18:00
Address: Beursplein 1, 8000 Bruges, Belgium
09:00 - 09:20
Welcome Address by AIJA President Arthur Stüssi
09:20 - 10:45
Organised by Skills, Career, Innovation, Leadership and Learning (SCILL) and In-House Counsel Boards
The rise of generative AI and legal automation tools is forcing law firms and in-house counsel to rethink how legal work is done and how it’s valued. But behind the tech lie harder, strategic questions: how do you compare AI products with overlapping features? Can automation reduce staffing needs or justredistribute work? Should AI-enhanced output be billed differently? And how do clients perceive these tools: as value-added or mere cost-cutting?
At the same time, in an increasingly competitive legal market, firms are under pressure to stand out in both private and public tenders. Smart pricing strategies -such as contingency, capped, or blended fees - remain essential, but AI can also play a role in shaping more compelling proposals. From analysing past matters to modelling cost scenarios and improving fee transparency, intelligent tools can help firms design pricing that is both competitive and aligned with client expectations. The challenge is aligning innovation with what clients actually value: results, transparency, and trust.
Bringing together tech-savvy lawyers, law firm leaders, and in-house counsel, this session will explore:
The rise of generative AI and legal automation tools is forcing law firms and in-house counsel to rethink how legal work is done and how it’s valued. But behind the tech lie harder, strategic questions: how do you compare AI products with overlapping features? Can automation reduce staffing needs or justredistribute work? Should AI-enhanced output be billed differently? And how do clients perceive these tools: as value-added or mere cost-cutting?
At the same time, in an increasingly competitive legal market, firms are under pressure to stand out in both private and public tenders. Smart pricing strategies -such as contingency, capped, or blended fees - remain essential, but AI can also play a role in shaping more compelling proposals. From analysing past matters to modelling cost scenarios and improving fee transparency, intelligent tools can help firms design pricing that is both competitive and aligned with client expectations. The challenge is aligning innovation with what clients actually value: results, transparency, and trust.
Bringing together tech-savvy lawyers, law firm leaders, and in-house counsel, this session will explore:
- Vendor selection: how to assess and compare legal AI tools
- Billing models: should clients pay for the tool, the time, or the result?
- Tendering strategy: aligning pricing, process, and tech in proposals
- Workforce implications: are junior roles being automated or evolving?
- Risk management: addressing hallucinations, bias, GDPR, andconfidentiality
- Client perception: transparency, trust, and the value of innovation.
11:15 - 12:30
Organised by Transport and Logistics Law, Intellectual Property, Technology, Media, and Telecommunications (IPTMT) and Public Procurement Law (PPL) Commissions
As European nations increasingly invest in drone technologies through joint defense initiatives, the legal landscape around dual-use capabilities becomes more complex. This panel explores the intersection of public procurement, intellectual property protection, and regulatory coordination in transnational drone alliances. Particular attention will be paid to the legal frameworks enabling defence-funded drone innovations to transition into civilian applications while safeguarding sensitive technologies.
The discussion will also address how cross-border collaboration impacts liability, standardisation, and compliance with both EU and national security laws.
Lawyers advising governments, contractors, or tech firms must navigate thisevolving space where innovation, defence, and civil use converge.
As European nations increasingly invest in drone technologies through joint defense initiatives, the legal landscape around dual-use capabilities becomes more complex. This panel explores the intersection of public procurement, intellectual property protection, and regulatory coordination in transnational drone alliances. Particular attention will be paid to the legal frameworks enabling defence-funded drone innovations to transition into civilian applications while safeguarding sensitive technologies.
The discussion will also address how cross-border collaboration impacts liability, standardisation, and compliance with both EU and national security laws.
Lawyers advising governments, contractors, or tech firms must navigate thisevolving space where innovation, defence, and civil use converge.
14:00 - 15:00
Organised by International Arbitration and Litigation Commissions
The rise of artificial intelligence is not only transforming how legal work is done. It’s also reshaping what counts as evidence. From generative AI outputs (contracts, emails, memos) to deepfakes, predictive analytics, surveillance data, and manipulated metadata, the line between truth and simulation is becoming dangerously thin.
This panel explores how courts and arbitral tribunals are beginning to confront the evidentiary challenges posed by AI. Can a machine-generated document be trusted? What standards apply to authenticity, reliability, and admissibility when the source is a black-box model? And how can opposing parties exercise their right to challenge and verify algorithmically derived or altered evidence?
We’ll discuss real-life scenarios, grey zones, and practical strategies for litigators and arbitrators alike as they face a new kind of evidentiary battlefield.
A case where the advocate might be arguing against the algorithm.
The rise of artificial intelligence is not only transforming how legal work is done. It’s also reshaping what counts as evidence. From generative AI outputs (contracts, emails, memos) to deepfakes, predictive analytics, surveillance data, and manipulated metadata, the line between truth and simulation is becoming dangerously thin.
This panel explores how courts and arbitral tribunals are beginning to confront the evidentiary challenges posed by AI. Can a machine-generated document be trusted? What standards apply to authenticity, reliability, and admissibility when the source is a black-box model? And how can opposing parties exercise their right to challenge and verify algorithmically derived or altered evidence?
We’ll discuss real-life scenarios, grey zones, and practical strategies for litigators and arbitrators alike as they face a new kind of evidentiary battlefield.
A case where the advocate might be arguing against the algorithm.
15:30 - 16:30
Organised by Business Crime and Civil Fraud and Banking, Finance and Capital Markets and Real Estate Commissions
As geopolitical tensions, economic instability, and fast-evolving technologies converge, business crime is becoming more complex and harder to contain.
From phishing and crypto fraud to AI-driven scams and sanction evasion, the threats are multiplying across borders and digital platforms.
This session explores how cyber-enabled financial crime and fragmented global regulation are reshaping risk for banks, multinational companies, and their advisors. It will also touch on emerging regulatory frameworks - such as the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) - that aim to address digital risk in the financial sector.
Aimed at practitioners in corporate crime, fraud, and banking & finance law, the panel will unpack the legal, operational, and reputational exposures facing institutions in today’s unstable environment.
As geopolitical tensions, economic instability, and fast-evolving technologies converge, business crime is becoming more complex and harder to contain.
From phishing and crypto fraud to AI-driven scams and sanction evasion, the threats are multiplying across borders and digital platforms.
This session explores how cyber-enabled financial crime and fragmented global regulation are reshaping risk for banks, multinational companies, and their advisors. It will also touch on emerging regulatory frameworks - such as the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) - that aim to address digital risk in the financial sector.
Aimed at practitioners in corporate crime, fraud, and banking & finance law, the panel will unpack the legal, operational, and reputational exposures facing institutions in today’s unstable environment.
10:30 - 11:45
Organised by Labor Law (+ Immigration Law), Environmental and Energy Law and Healthcare and Life Sciences Commissions
As the EU AI Act nears implementation, legal advisors are no longer theorising. They’re advising. This session will move beyond the text of the regulation to examine real-world cases where clients have sought counsel on AI classification, high-risk use cases, compliance strategies, and liability risks. From tech startups developing generative models to corporates deploying AI in HR, the environmental and energy sectors, or health, we’ll unpack how the Act is being interpreted in practice.
Panellists will share concrete advisory experiences, highlight grey areas, and discuss how to future-proof client strategies in a rapidly evolving legal landscape.
As the EU AI Act nears implementation, legal advisors are no longer theorising. They’re advising. This session will move beyond the text of the regulation to examine real-world cases where clients have sought counsel on AI classification, high-risk use cases, compliance strategies, and liability risks. From tech startups developing generative models to corporates deploying AI in HR, the environmental and energy sectors, or health, we’ll unpack how the Act is being interpreted in practice.
Panellists will share concrete advisory experiences, highlight grey areas, and discuss how to future-proof client strategies in a rapidly evolving legal landscape.
12:15 - 13:30
Organised by International Arbitration and Intellectual Property, Technology, Media, and Telecommunications (IPTMT) Commissions
In a world where technological leadership is both a strategic asset and a source of geopolitical tension, disputes over intellectual property are becoming more frequent, complex, and sensitive. Arbitration is increasingly being chosen to resolve these disputes, offering neutrality, confidentiality, and enforceability across jurisdictions.
But first, one must ask: are these disputes arbitrable? That question is not always simple especially when sanctions, export controls, or public policy concerns are involved.
This panel will examine which types of IP disputes can be resolved through arbitration and how arbitration is being used to manage cross-border IP conflicts, including those involving patented technologies, software, trade secrets, and licensing agreements. It will also explore challenges to arbitrability, enforcement, and the protection of confidential information in high-stakes innovation disputes.
In a world where technological leadership is both a strategic asset and a source of geopolitical tension, disputes over intellectual property are becoming more frequent, complex, and sensitive. Arbitration is increasingly being chosen to resolve these disputes, offering neutrality, confidentiality, and enforceability across jurisdictions.
But first, one must ask: are these disputes arbitrable? That question is not always simple especially when sanctions, export controls, or public policy concerns are involved.
This panel will examine which types of IP disputes can be resolved through arbitration and how arbitration is being used to manage cross-border IP conflicts, including those involving patented technologies, software, trade secrets, and licensing agreements. It will also explore challenges to arbitrability, enforcement, and the protection of confidential information in high-stakes innovation disputes.
14:30 - 15:45
Organised by Intellectual Property, Technology, Media, and Telecommunications (IPTMT) and T.R.A.D.E. (Trade, Retail, Agency, Distribution, E-commerce) Commissions
In an era where information flows at the speed of algorithms, disinformation has become a strategic weapon in politics and commerce. AI-generated deepfakes, coordinated bot networks, and manipulative advertising now cross borders in seconds, targeting markets, reputations, and democratic processes.
This panel will explore the legal and regulatory frameworks - such as the EU Digital Services Act (DSA) and the Code of Practice on Disinformation - that are redefining the duties of platforms, marketplaces, and intermediaries. Topics will include liability for false or manipulated content, transparency requirements for recommender systems and political advertising, and the challenges of cross-border enforcement.
Through real-world cases, panellists will examine how lawyers can protect clients from reputational and commercial harm, balance freedom of expression with accountability, and anticipate the next generation of AI-driven information warfare.
In an era where information flows at the speed of algorithms, disinformation has become a strategic weapon in politics and commerce. AI-generated deepfakes, coordinated bot networks, and manipulative advertising now cross borders in seconds, targeting markets, reputations, and democratic processes.
This panel will explore the legal and regulatory frameworks - such as the EU Digital Services Act (DSA) and the Code of Practice on Disinformation - that are redefining the duties of platforms, marketplaces, and intermediaries. Topics will include liability for false or manipulated content, transparency requirements for recommender systems and political advertising, and the challenges of cross-border enforcement.
Through real-world cases, panellists will examine how lawyers can protect clients from reputational and commercial harm, balance freedom of expression with accountability, and anticipate the next generation of AI-driven information warfare.
10:00 - 11:00
11:30 - 13:00
Fees & General Info
There are currently no registration fees available.General terms and conditions
By registering you have to accept the general terms and conditions and accept that your registration is considered binding immediately, but participation to the event is possible only after full payment of the registration fee.
Please note that any arrangements related to the participation of the participant in an AIJA event, including but not limited to booking or cancellation of accommodation or flights, as well as respecting the cancellation deadlines indicated in the general terms and conditions, are the sole responsibility of the participant. AIJA shall not be held liable for any expenses the participant may suffer as the result of participant’s failure to comply with his/her obligations.
It is recommended for each participant to purchase a cancellation and travel insurance.
Please note that in-house counsel registrations are subject to review and confirmation by AIJA. AIJA considers in-house counsel professionals who hold a university degree in law allowing access to a bar association and practicing law as an in-house counsel in private, public, or non-profit companies, institutions or organisations. Please note that in-house counsel who are at the same time active as fee-earning lawyers or consultants are not eligible to the discounted in-house counsel fee.
Please read the general terms and conditions applicable for AIJA events.
Scholarships
If you are a lawyer under 35 years old and meet the requirements, apply to our Scholarship Programme for this event. You can check more details here.
Prepare your stay
CONFERENCE VENUE
The Exhibition, Meeting and Congress Centre in Bruges (BMCC)
The Exhibition, Meeting and Congress Centre in Bruges (BMCC) is the ideal location for special events, conferences and trade fairs. Besides the impressive ground floor with an area of 4,500m² - perfect for trade fairs, larger public events and concerts - there is the conference area on the upper floors. The BMCC has multiple spaces to offer such as the impressive multifunctional hall of 4,500m², a plenary hall, a spacious foyer, breakout rooms and a unique space for 500 people (The View) with terrace on the top floor, so you can choose the ideal space that perfectly suits your event. Of course, you always get the beautiful view of the historic city center with it!
You can easily reach the BMCC on foot, by bicycle, via public transport and by car. The BMCC is located in the heart of the historic city center within walking distance of numerous hotels, historic attractions and world-famous museums.
Venue details:
Date: May 26th until May 30th 2026, from 8 AM until 6 PM
Address: Sint-Maartensblik 1, 8000 Brugge
Tel:+32(0)50 89 35 47
Website: https://bmccbruges.com/
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ACCOMMODATION IN BRUGES
Dukes’ Palace Hotel - 5-star SUP
Contact details:
Address: Prinsenhof 8, 8000 Brugge
Tel: +32 (0)50 44 78 88
Email: info@hoteldukespalace.com
Website: https://hoteldukespalace.com/
Cancellation Policy:
These rooms may be cancelled by the guest free of charge up to two (2) weeks prior to arrival. The room must be cancelled by email. Cancellations made within two (2) weeks of arrival are non-refundable.
Check the 'Read more' document to book your room.
| READ MORE |
Grand Hotel Casselbergh - 4 star
Contact details:
Address: Hoogstraat 6, 8000 Brugge
Tel: +32 (0)50 44 65 00
Email: info@grandhotelcassselbergh.com
Website: https://www.grandhotelcasselbergh.be/
Cancellation Policy:
Individual cancellation is possible until 6 weeks prior to arrival.
Cancellation between 6 weeks & 1 week prior to arrival : 50% cancellation fee.
In case of late cancellation or no show, there’s no possibility for a refund.
| READ MORE | BOOK YOUR ROOM HERE |
Dukes' Academy - 4 star
Contact details:
Address: Wijngaardstraat 7/9, 8000 Brugge
Tel: +32 (0)50 33 22 66
Email: info@dukesacademie.com
Website: https://www.dukesacademie.com/
Subject to availability, participants who would like to book can make a reservation by completing this form and mailing it to sales@dukesacademie.com.
Cancellation policy:
Cancellation as from 2 weeks prior to arrival: 100% cancellation fee.
| READ MORE |
Hotel Aragon - 4 star
Contact details:
Address: Naaldenstraat 22, 8000 Brugge
Tel: +32 (0)50 33 35 337
Email: info@aragon.be
Website: https://www.aragon.be/
Rooms can be booked upon availability. Guests can register by completing this form and sending it to groups@aragon.be.
Cancellation Policy:
Individual cancellation is possible until 6 weeks prior to arrival.
Cancellation between 6 weeks & 1 week prior to arrival: 50% cancellation fee.
In case of late cancellation or no show, there’s no possibility for a refund.
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Boutique Hotel Sablon - 4 star
Contact details:
Address: Kopstraat 10, 8000 Brugge
Tel: +32 (0)50 96 02 46
Email: info@hotelsablon.be
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Hotel Portinari - 4 star
Contact details:
Address: ‘t Zand 15, 8000 Bruges
Tel: +32 (0)50 34 10 34
Book rooms online with the promotional code: AIJA-Bruges2026 to receive a 10% discount.
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Martin’s Brugge - 3 star SUP
Contact details:
Address: Oude Burg 5, 8000 Brugge
Tel: +32 (0)50 44 51 11
Email: resa.brugge@martinshotels.com
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Organising Committee
Lore DERDEYN
LYDIAN (BELGIUM)
Sarah KOCKS
Kocks & Partners (BELGIUM)
Ruben MASAR
VISCHER Ltd. (SWITZERLAND)
Sébastien MASSARO
Tiberghien BV (BELGIUM)
Jacopo PIEMONTE
De Berti Jacchia (ITALY)
Sara SAHRANAVARD
Schwärzler Rechtsanwälte (SWITZERLAND)
Michel SEGERS
MVVP (BELGIUM)
Tom SWINNEN
Simont Braun (BELGIUM)
Ester VETS
Claeys & Engels (BELGIUM)
Sponsors
Diamond
Emerald
Silver
Bronze
Become a sponsor
Partnership with AIJA as a sponsor provides the best networking opportunities in a relaxed business
environment.
If you have any questions, contact us on ‘Become a sponsor’ and check for more opportunities.
Personal Protection
The personal data that you communicate to us shall be processed by the International Association Of Young Lawyers (AIJA), with its registered office at Avenue de Tervueren 231, 1150 Brussels, Belgium (Tel: +32 2 347 33 34 - office@aija.com), in accordance with Act No. 78-17 of January 6, 1978 relating to data, files and freedoms and Regulation No. 2016/679 on data protection, as of its entry into force on May 25, 2018.
Your data will be managed by AIJA's General Services, Events and Accounts Section:
- For the purpose of administering your registration for the event and your on-site access to the event;
- In order to pay for the selected services - your bank details will be deleted after receipt of your payment;
- In order to communicate information messages from AIJA.
To the extent necessary for the execution of their respective tasks, our subcontractors in charge of our seminar organisation, our IT infrastructure, our management, the production and maintenance of our website and extranet, are likely to gain access to your data from time to time. Their servers are located in the European Union.
Data relating to your participation in the event shall be stored for a period of 10 years. We are obliged to archive billing data until the end of the period required for our tax and accounting obligations, i.e. for 7 full tax years.
We shall store your contact information to keep you informed until you ask us to stop. You have the right to access your data and have it corrected if necessary.