ICC ADR - Introduction

The ICC ADR Rules offer a framework for the amicable settlement of commercial disputes with the assistance of a neutral. They were launched in 2001 to replace the 1988 Rules of Conciliation. Under the ICC ADR Rules, parties may freely choose the settlement technique they consider most appropriate to their situation. This may be mediation, whereby a neutral helps the parties to settle their differences through negotiation; a mini-trial, in which a panel comprising a neutral and a manager from each party proposes a solution or gives an opinion; or a neutral evaluation of a point of law or fact. Common to all these techniques is the fact that the decision reached by or in collaboration with the neutral is not binding upon the parties, unless they agree otherwise. The success of the chosen technique will depend largely on the qualities of the neutral. He or she may be designated directly by the parties or appointed by ICC. In the latter case, the parties may specify certain requirements as to the qualifications or attributes the neutral should possess. Lastly, the parties are not limited to a single technique, but may find it useful to apply a combination of settlement techniques.

The ADR Rules govern the ADR proceedings and the Guide to ICC ADR provides an explanation of the Rules and of various settlement techniques which can be used pursuant to the Rules.