The DIS was pleased to sponsor the XVII DIS/Belgrade Open Pre-Moot on 5 and 6 April 2025 in Belgrade, Serbia. Organized in cooperation with the University of Belgrade Faculty of Law, the event welcomed 61 student teams from 31 different countries preparing for the Willem C. Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moot.
Over two days of practice rounds, students had the chance to develop their advocacy skills and gain insight from more than 250 experienced arbitrators. The pre-moot continues to serve as a valuable opportunity for young practitioners to engage with international arbitration in a practical setting.
As a returning sponsor, the DIS supports initiatives that contribute to legal education and promote early engagement with arbitration. The pre-moot also fosters exchange among students, practitioners, and academics from various jurisdictions.
On the day before the pre-moot, the XV Belgrade Arbitration Conference took place, bringing together practitioners, academics, and students for a day of substantive discussions on current developments in international arbitration. A highlight of the event was the founding of the German-Serbian Bilateral Arbitration Group, which aims to strengthen cooperation and exchange between arbitration communities in both countries.
As part of the weekend, DIS40 partnered with the Serbian Arbitration Association under 40 and Young ITA for the event titled “Now Playing: Arbitration in a Changing World – Key Industries & Skills that Matter.” The session focused on how shifting global dynamics are impacting arbitration practice and explored the evolving skills needed by young professionals entering the field. The event provided a dynamic platform for informal discussion and networking among emerging practitioners.
We thank all organizers, volunteers, and participants for their contributions to a productive and engaging weekend. The DIS remains committed to supporting initiatives that encourage international dialogue and professional development in arbitration. We look forward to welcoming many of this year’s participants into the wider DIS community in the years to come.
Reinmar Wolff
