Research Handbook on International Claims Commissions

International claims commissions (ICCs) are unique dispute resolution mechanisms designed to be highly flexible and responsive to international crises. This timely Research Handbook explores the history of ICCs, how and why states create them, and the role of states and secretariats within them.

Written by accomplished experts and past claims commission members to present a unique perspective on ICCs, this Research Handbook analyses past claims commissions including the Iran-US Claims Tribunal, the UN Compensation Commission, the Eritrea-Ethiopia Claims Commission and the Commission for Real Property Claims in Bosnia. Providing a comprehensive review of institutional design issues, this Handbook examines the challenges associated with mass claims processes, diplomatic protection, domestic liability, and enforcement as well as how to address them. Looking ahead to the future, the contributing authors propose innovative ways in which claims commissions could be used to address contemporary challenges such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the construction of the wall in Occupied Palestinian Territory, climate change and environmental law disputes.

This thought-provoking Research Handbook will be a fundamental research resource for scholars and students of public international law and international dispute resolution. It will also provide practical advice for international arbitration experts, policy makers, and officials in international organisations.