Proper Notification: A Crucial Element of Arbitral Proceedings

Abstract

Everyone experienced in international arbitration knows how important it is to ensure that the respondent is properly notified of the arbitration. No mistakes can be afforded at this crucial stage of the proceedings. Should the notification fail, the arbitral award cannot, and should not, be enforced. If the notification is inadequate, and the respondent fails to take part in the arbitral proceedings (so-called ex parte proceedings), there will unquestionably be difficulties in enforcing the arbitral award if the respondent chooses not to comply with it. It is very rarely that Swedish courts deny recognition and enforcement of foreign arbitral awards. However, in a recent case from the Swedish Supreme Court, enforcement of an award was denied in Sweden due to lack of proper notification. The case clearly illustrates how critical and important proper notification is in cross-border disputes. Moreover, the case raises questions about the arbitral institutions’ responsibility and practices in this regard.