With great regret and deep sadness, we bid farewell to Karl-Heinz Böckstiegel, who passed away on 19 December 2025 at the age of 89.
Karl-Heinz Böckstiegel was one of the most influential figures in German arbitration and one of the world’s leading arbitration scholars. His outstanding international reputation was reflected, among other things, in his service as President of the Iran-United States Claims Tribunal in The Hague. As a member of the ICCA Governing Board, he played a decisive role in shaping the international development of arbitration.
Over many years, Karl-Heinz Böckstiegel left a lasting mark on the DIS through his exceptional commitment, foresight, and humanity. From 1996 to 2012, he served as Chairman of the Board, leading the DIS with great responsibility and professional excellence. Since 2012, he remained closely associated with our institution as Honorary Chairman.
Through the biennial Karl-Heinz Böckstiegel Lecture, the DIS will continue to honour his expertise and dedication in service of promoting fruitful debate and dialog.
His work, his personality, and his extraordinary contributions will remain in our grateful memory. With his passing, we lose not only an outstanding architect and supporter of the DIS, but also a deeply respected individual.
Our deepest sympathy goes to his wife as well as to all his family members and companions.
In silent remembrance
The Executive Board
Stefan Kröll, Rouven F. Bodenheimer, Reinmar Wolff
and the Secretary General Ramona Schardt