Bahrain Strengthens Role in Investment Dispute Mediation

“Getting to Yes”

Bahrain reaffirmed its role as a regional hub for dialogue and dispute resolution by hosting a high-level workshop on investment dispute mediation and negotiation at the Sheraton Hotel.

The event, organized by the Council for International Dispute Resolution in Bahrain (Council), brought together participants from the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and practitioners from across the region including Tunisia, Morocco and other countries.

“We see training officials and regional stakeholders as one of the most effective ways to strengthen dispute resolution, and that is our top priority,” said Ali Abdulla Al Aradi, Chairperson of the Bahrain Chamber for Dispute Resolution (BCDR), in his opening remarks.

Insights from Global Experts

The workshop featured Ken Hyatt, Managing Partner at CMPartners, former Deputy Under Secretary for International Trade at the U.S. Commerce Department, and contributor to the Harvard Negotiation Project, as the guest trainer.

“I’m proud to be part of Team Bahrain and to share this special occasion with you,” Hyatt said. “Negotiation is tough, but applying the right theories can greatly improve how we handle real-world disputes.”

Participants also benefited from the expertise of Frauke Nitschke, Team Leader and Senior Legal Counsel at the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID).
“Today’s focus is on investment disputes and settlement methods. With my experience, I aim to guide you through this journey,” she told attendees.

 Legal Framework

Under the theme “Getting to Yes”, the workshop centered on practical approaches to investment disputes, mediation, and negotiation. Discussions highlighted the importance of creating a domestic legal framework in Bahrain to support amicable dispute-settlement processes.

Such a framework, experts suggested, would not only align with international agreements but also clarify the responsibilities of public officials, reduce concerns over liability, and establish clear authority for approving settlements.

Background on ICSID

The International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID), part of the World Bank Group, established by the ICSID Convention, plays a leading role in administering dispute resolution processes between states and investors. Its Mediation Rules, effective since July 1, 2022, provide a structured mechanism for amicable settlement outside traditional arbitration.

On February 21, 2025, the Council and ICSID signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to develop cooperation in international dispute resolution—the agreement aimed to establish a framework for collaboration and knowledge exchange between both entities.

Through this workshop, Bahrain signaled its commitment to enhancing its legal and institutional capacity in handling investment disputes, further strengthening its reputation as a trusted hub for international dialogue and cooperation.