Recent Law Graduate, ULiège
On July 15, 2025 I had the opportunity to take part in the Intern Day organized by CEPANI. The event began at 10:30 AM at the CEPANI Offices, where we were warmly welcomed by Ms. Emma Van Campenhoudt (Secretary General) and Ms. Astrid Moreau (Deputy Counsel) from the Secretariat of CEPANI.
To begin the day, we were introduced to the President of CEPANI, Mr. Benoît Kohl, who delivered the opening presentation. After a brief roundtable during which each participant introduced themselves to the group, Mr. Kohl provided an overview of CEPANI’s main areas of activity, including arbitration, mediation, domain name disputes, C-SAR, and C-Build. He also shared key figures, noting that CEPANI handles between 50 and 70 arbitration cases per year, with over 1,300 cases administered since its creation. The presentation concluded with a Q&A session, during which Mr. Kohl emphasized the core values upheld by CEPANI, particularly the importance of the institution’s independence in the appointment of arbitrators.
The second presentation was delivered by Ms. Lauren Rasking, co-chair of CEPANI 40 and Counsel at A&O Shearman in Brussels. She guided us through the key elements and typical timeline of an arbitration proceeding, while also providing an overview of the legal framework applicable to arbitration. In addition, she presented a sample arbitration clause as a practical illustration, using it to highlight common pitfalls and drafting best practices through a set of DOs and DON'Ts. She then discussed her involvement in the Greener Arbitrations initiative, referencing the Green Pledge and the measures taken to reduce the environmental impact of arbitration. Ms. Rasking concluded with thoughtful and practical advice for those interested in pursuing a career in the field.
After the presentations, we enjoyed a networking lunch, which provided a great opportunity to meet and exchange with other attendees. Conversations were lively and diverse, ranging from LL.M. programs to career paths in arbitration. I had the chance to speak with other law students, PhD candidates, lawyers working at Brussels-based law firms, and some CEPANI-registered arbitrators.
In the afternoon, Ms. Van Campenhoudt and Ms. Moreau provided practical guidance on initiating an arbitration under the CEPANI Rules. They explained the fee structure and cost calculator, and presented the model clauses, templates, and guidelines available to practitioners.
This enriching day concluded on a very positive note. I am grateful to CEPANI for organising such an initiative and would like to thank the whole CEPANI team for their warm welcome and support throughout the day.
To anyone considering participating in the future: it’s truly an opportunity not to be missed.
