How Arbitral Institutions and International Organisations Are Paving the Way to New Technologies

Explore how arbitral institutions and international organisations are embracing technology to revolutionise case management and dispute resolution processes. This page highlights cutting-edge initiatives and resources aimed at streamlining arbitration, from innovative submission systems to tailored guidelines and specialized rules for tech-related disputes.

Smart solutions

• SCC Online Request for Arbitration Form

• AAA/ICDR AI Clause Builder

• AAAi Panelist Search

Guidelines & Best Practices

• CIArb Framework Guideline on the Use of Technology in International Arbitration (2021)

• AAA-ICDR Principles Supporting the Use of AI in Alternative Dispute Resolution (2023)

• SCC Guide to Using Artificial Intelligence in Arbitration (2024)

• Silicon Valley Arbitration & Mediation Center Guidelines on AI Use in Arbitration (2024)

Rules & Model Clauses for Technology Disputes

• Digital Dispute Resolution Rules by the UK Jurisdiction Taskforce of LawtechUK (2021)

• JAMS Artificial Intelligence Disputes Clause, Rules, and Protective Order (2024)

• JAMS Smart Contract Clause and Rules (draft)

• UNCITRAL Model Clause on Highly Expedited Arbitration for Tech Disputes (2024)

• LCAM Blockchain Expedited Arbitration Rules (2024)

Reports

• ICC Report on Leveraging Technology for Fair, Effective, and Efficient Arbitration (2022)

Digital Assets

• UNIDROIT Principles on Digital Assets and Private Law (2023)

FAQ: Technology and AI in Arbitration

1. How are arbitral institutions using artificial intelligence in arbitration?

Arbitral institutions are increasingly integrating AI tools to streamline case management,

automate administrative tasks, and enhance research efficiency. Examples include the

AAA/ICDR AI Clause Builder and the SCC Online Request for Arbitration Form, which

simplify submissions and reduce errors. AI is also being explored to assist in document

review, scheduling, and data analysis for better case management.

2. What are the main guidelines for using AI in international arbitration?

Leading institutions have issued guidelines and frameworks to promote responsible AI use.

Key examples include the CIArb Framework Guideline on the Use of Technology in

International Arbitration (2025021) and the SCC Guide to Using Artificial Intelligence in

Arbitration (2024). These documents set out best practices for ensuring transparency,

fairness, and ethical use of technology throughout the arbitration process.

3. How is technology changing dispute resolution processes?

Technology is transforming dispute resolution by enabling digital submissions, virtual

hearings, and secure document exchanges. It enhances efficiency, reduces costs, and

allows global accessibility. Innovations like blockchain-based arbitration rules and smart

contract clauses—for example, those developed by JAMS and LawtechUK—are shaping a

new era of tech-enabled arbitration.

4. What are model clauses for technology-related disputes?

Model clauses provide parties with predefined language to incorporate into contracts,

specifying how tech disputes—including those involving AI, blockchain, or smart

contracts—should be resolved. Institutions like UNCITRAL, JAMS, and LCAM have

developed tailored clauses and expedited procedures to address the unique challenges of

technology-driven cases.

5. Which international organisations are leading in digital arbitration initiatives?

Organisations such as UNCITRAL, CIArb, ICC, and UNIDROIT are playing major roles in

developing digital frameworks and principles. Their initiatives, such as the UNIDROIT

Principles on Digital Assets and Private Law (2023) and ICC’s Report on Leveraging

Technology for Fair, Effective, and Efficient Arbitration (2022), provide global guidance for

modern, technology-enabled arbitration systems.

6. What are the benefits of adopting technology in arbitration?

The use of technology and AI brings speed, transparency, and accessibility to arbitration.

Digital tools reduce administrative delays, automate repetitive processes, and enable virtual

case management, allowing institutions to handle complex cases more efficiently. They also

improve sustainability by reducing travel and paper usage.

7. Are there risks to using AI in arbitration?

Yes — while AI offers efficiency, it also raises significant concerns about confidentiality, bias, and reliability. Arbitral institutions and practitioners emphasize the need for ethical guidelines and human oversight to mitigate these risks.

Under the EU AI Act, the use of artificial intelligence to apply the law to the facts in judicial or arbitral contexts is explicitly classified as a “high-risk” system. This designation means that AI tools used in arbitration are subject to heightened transparency, accountability, and data-quality obligations.

In practice, this requires:

• Clear disclosure when AI systems assist in any part of the arbitral process.

• Traceability and explainability of algorithmic outputs.

• Independent audits and ongoing monitoring to prevent systemic bias or misinformation.

These obligations aim to ensure that technology supports — rather than undermines — the principles of fairness, due process, and human judgment that define arbitration. Transparency in how AI tools operate remains key to maintaining trust in arbitration outcomes.

Dive into these resources to understand how technology is shaping arbitration's future and fostering innovation in dispute resolution.