Adapting to Instability: Structural shifts in International dispute resolution and New Zealand’s role
Thursday 28 August | 3.30pm
In an era marked by global uncertainty, robust and adaptable dispute resolution frameworks are more important than ever. As we walk backwards into the future, this panel reflects on how international courts, tribunals and dispute resolution mechanisms are evolving in response to new geopolitical and systemic challenges.
The discussion will highlight New Zealand’s engagement with the international legal system, drawing on recent cases to explore the domestic relevance of these global shifts. For AMINZ members across all practice areas, this session offers valuable insights into how past developments continue to shape the future of dispute resolution both locally and globally.
Dr Anna Kirk
Session Chair
Dr Penelope Ridings
Robert Kirkness
Jo McKeagg
Dr Anna Kirk
Arbitrator, Adjudicator and Barrister at Bankside Chambers
Anna is a commercial arbitrator, adjudicator and barrister, specialising in international arbitration and public international law. Anna is New Zealand's member on the ICC International Court of Arbitration (2021-2024). Anna is also the Vice President of AMINZ.
Speaker session: Adapting to Instability: Structural shifts in International dispute resolution and
New Zealand’s role
Dr Penelope Ridings MNZM
International Law Commission
Dr Penelope Ridings, MNZM, is one of New Zealand’s most distinguished international lawyers. She has extensive experience representing States and finding common ground and solutions to complex legal issues.
In her long career with New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, she has been both Chief International Legal Adviser and Ambassador, and has developed a deep understanding of the academic and diplomatic aspects of international law.
Speaker session: Adapting to Instability: Structural shifts in International dispute resolution and
New Zealand’s role
Robet Kirkness
Barrister at Thorndon Chambers
Robert has a broad commercial, public and international law practice. He appears as counsel for private clients, State agencies and the Crown in commercial and public law disputes before the New Zealand courts. Robert also acts as counsel for States, corporations and individuals in disputes before international courts and tribunals. In addition to counsel work, Robert serves as an arbitrator in international commercial disputes.
Speaker session: Adapting to Instability: Structural shifts in International dispute resolution and
New Zealand’s role
Jo McKeagg
Principal Adviser to Deputy Secretary for Europe, Middle East, Africa and Australia for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Jo is the Organisation leader working with the Deputy Secretary on organisational governance, policy, strategy and people issues across the Group and Ministry