Registration for Dublin International Disputes Week 2026 is now open

Are the foundations of modern democracy and the rule of law still fit for today's world? That question will open Dublin International Disputes Week 2026 (DIDW) which takes place across Dublin from Monday, 19^th to Friday, 23^rd of October 2026.

Chair of Ireland for Law Enda Kenny, former Mayor of Bristol Lord Marvin Rees OBE, and The Hon. Judge Loretta A. Preska, Senior Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York will examine whether today's legal and democratic institutions are keeping pace with the challenges of an increasingly complex and rapidly changing world. The discussion will be moderated by former RTÉ broadcaster Eileen Dunne.

Register now to join us at DIDW 2026.

Programme highlights

Bringing together leading figures from politics, public service, the judiciary and the legal profession, the DIDW 2026 programme will also explore the realities of regulating social media, the changing dynamics of shareholder disputes, and the legal implications of rapidly advancing technologies, including AI.

Following the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) decision that EU Courts can review International Sports Arbitration awards, William McAuliffe, Head of Disciplinary at UEFA, Benoit Keane, Avocat with Keane Legal and Susan Ahern, SC in The Bar of Ireland will discuss what now for the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Commissioner Michael McGrath will deliver a keynote address exploring the intersection of law, technology and the future of justice, with a particular focus on safeguarding citizens' rights, promoting fair digital markets and upholding democratic values in an increasingly digital world.

And closing the Main Conference, The Hon. Mr. Justice David Barniville, President of the High Court of Ireland, will sit down with The Hon. Judge Loretta A. Preska, Senior Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York for a fireside chat.

Additional speakers will be announced in the coming weeks, see the programme take shape here.

Stephen O’Connor, Co-Chair of DIDW commented: “Dublin International Disputes Week has become a key international forum for the exchange of ideas and to address the evolving challenges of dispute resolution. As the EU's only English-speaking common law jurisdiction, Ireland is uniquely positioned to provide a trusted, innovative and business-friendly environment for resolving international disputes, and is the perfect global hub for these vital debates and discussions."

Newly announced DIDW Co-Chair, April McClements, added: “This is an invaluable opportunity to showcase the depth and diversity of expertise within Ireland's legal sector on the world stage, as well as to strengthen international collaboration, share best practice and reinforce Ireland's reputation as a leading centre for dispute resolution. This year’s varied and forward-looking programme promises to offer insight into emerging trends and innovative thinking on international disputes, alongside exceptional opportunities to connect and network with leading global experts.”

We are also delighted to welcome an exceptional group of sponsors whose support makes Dublin International Disputes Week 2026 possible:

This year’s premium co-sponsors of DIDW are Legora and Newcode AI - two leading legal technology companies - both at the forefront of legal artificial intelligent innovation.

Alex Fortescue-Webb, Head of UK and Ireland at Legora said: “We are thrilled to once again support Dublin International Disputes Week, a vital summit in shaping the future of dispute resolution. The legal community has been an active adopter of intelligent, secure AI services, and we look forward to hearing from others in the field and hopefully contributing our own perspective on how legal technology can support more efficient dispute resolution, improve access to justice across jurisdictions and help shape the future of legal practice — all while maintaining the highest standards of quality and trust.”

Donna O’Leary, Head of Newcode AI  Ireland also commented: “International Disputes Week provides an invaluable opportunity to engage with practitioners, policymakers and business leaders who recognise the transformative potential of innovation in the legal sector. Our CEO and Founder, Maged Helmy will speak on the issues that arise when litigation and technological advancements meet, and how our services help legal professionals work more efficiently, make better-informed decisions and deliver better outcomes for clients.”

The conference expects to welcome hundreds of Irish and international legal practitioners, in-house counsel, arbitrators, and policy leaders.

Don't miss the opportunity to be part of a transformative discussion, register now!