International arbitration
We advise and represent our clients, both private actors and sovereign entities, in international arbitration disputes worldwide. Our practice is recognized for its expertise in France and across Europe, as well as in Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East.
Our lawyers act as counsel or arbitrators in commercial and investment arbitrations conducted under the auspices of leading international arbitration institutions, including the ICC, ICSID, PCA, LCIA, DIAC, CCJA, CMAP, and AFA.
Our multidisciplinary and multilingual team is primarily based in Paris, with additional presence in Abu Dhabi, Geneva, Abidjan, and Dakar. We assist our clients at every stage of a dispute, from the pre-dispute phase through to the enforcement of arbitral awards, while promoting amicable dispute resolution whenever appropriate.
Commercial and Investment Arbitration
We assist our clients in commercial disputes arising from international contracts, shareholder conflicts, and post-acquisition disputes. We also represent States and investors in investment arbitrations based on bilateral and multilateral treaties, as well as various investment protection instruments.
We have particular expertise in arbitrations involving State entities, acting for both investors and States. By way of illustration, our team has represented States such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Colombia, and Panama in several investment arbitrations in recent years, and has developed strong expertise in commercial arbitrations involving public or semi-public entities.
A Strong Geographic Footprint
We maintain a strong regional presence in Africa, Latin America, and the EMEA region. Our longstanding experience in these areas is grounded in an in-depth understanding of local environments, business practices, and the legal, economic, and institutional challenges specific to each region.
Recognized Sector Expertise
Our team has recognized sector expertise, particularly in:
- natural resources (mining, oil & gas);
- energy (including hydroelectric and photovoltaic projects);
- construction and infrastructure;
- industrial contracts;
- hospitality.
This sector expertise is supported by an integrated firm approach: our arbitration specialists work closely with lawyers who advise our clients on a day-to-day basis in these industries. This cross-functional approach enhances knowledge sharing, provides a refined understanding of market trends, and enables better anticipation of dispute-related risks.
Arbitration as a Strategic Tool
Our arbitration practice is grounded in a comprehensive and strategic view of disputes. We approach each arbitration with full consideration of the economic context, market positioning, and commercial priorities of our clients, in order to develop practical and consistent long-term strategies rather than treating arbitration as an isolated event.
In this respect, our dispute strategy fully incorporates the use of interim and conservatory measures available before domestic courts whenever they are likely to strengthen our clients’ position in the arbitration—whether by rebalancing bargaining power or by effectively securing enforcement of the final award.
Cases are handled by highly experienced senior teams who are directly involved at every stage of the proceedings. This continuous involvement ensures a thorough command of the factual, technical, economic, and legal issues in each matter.
Economic Analysis and Quantum Assessment
Economic analysis plays a central role in our dispute strategy. The definition and quantification of damages are often decisive to the outcome of a dispute.
We have developed advanced technical expertise enabling us to take a leading role in shaping damages claims strategies, both in written submissions and at hearings, particularly during expert cross-examinations. We work closely with leading technical, economic, and financial experts to provide our clients with a rigorous, credible, and pragmatic approach to damages assessment.
Enforcement and Set-Aside Proceedings
We assist our clients with the recognition and enforcement of international arbitral awards. We also act in set-aside proceedings, particularly before the Paris Court of Appeal or before the competent courts depending on the seat of the arbitration.
Examples of support in international arbitration
Awards
De Gaulle Fleurance has a strong commercial arbitration practice that is used by French and international companies, including several leading companies, to handle cases of a variety of nature. The firm regularly distinguishes itself by its presence in cases involving the mining, construction and aviation sectors. It is often involved in high-stakes arbitrations related to Africa, particularly Algeria. The team has also recently been entrusted with cases raising complex issues related to Russian sanctions. Finally, the team handles exequatur procedures.
A great team. Very balanced composition in terms of experience as well as gender and nationalities. Always available and attentive to the client's interests.
Responsiveness and high skills.
A very pragmatic and technically high-level team.


















