Amicus curiae is a developing feature of modern international investment arbitration. This chapter starts by describing how investment arbitration shifted from a confidentiality-based practice to a model that is more open to the participation of civil society. It then proceeds to discuss the...

The direct link between economic activity and commercial law is irrefutable. Countries that want to promote economic growth strive to modernise their legal systems. This article discusses the main driving forces for legal reform in Portuguese-speaking African countries. It is argued that...

The flux of foreign investment into the water industry that took place over recent decades had a significant impact on the relationship between water companies and states. The creation of a global network of international investment agreements also altered the method of adjudication of possible...

English Abstract: This article analyses the proposal for a common European sales law and its impact on small and medium sized enterprises.Portuguese Abstract: Este artigo discute a Proposta para um Direito Europeu da Compra e venda e o seu impacto nas Pequenas e Médias Empresas

English Abstract: This article compares the inclusion of standard clauses in adhesion contracts under the Portuguese and Chinese laws.Portuguese Abstract: Este artigo compara a inclusão de cláusulas contratuais gerais em contratos de adesão à luz das leis portuguesa e chinesa

In recent years Portugal has been enduring a bitter financial and political crisis. The judiciary, time and again depicted as being under pressure, is facing new predicaments. This chapter discusses three points of tension within the Portuguese judiciary: the creation of a new judicial map,...

The award in Charanne and Construction Investments v. Spain is the first decision in a growing cluster of investment arbitrations relating to the enactment of legislative measures reducing or withdrawing economic support mechanisms previously introduced in support of renewable sources of energy....

Over the last decades, international arbitration has become the foremost technique for resolving disputes between states, individuals and corporations. The expansion of the market for international arbitration is evidenced by the multiplication of arbitral institutions around the world. Some of...