Diplomacy & Politics Glossary

The situation where more than one court or tribunal has the authority to adjudicate the same dispute. It often occurs between domestic and international jurisdictions.

A contractual provision designating a specific court or tribunal as the sole forum to resolve disputes.

A provision in a treaty allowing states to choose whether to accept certain obligations or procedures, such as dispute settlement mechanisms.

The practice by parties to a dispute of choosing the most favorable court or tribunal in which to bring their legal case.

A dispute resolution process where states submit their conflict to an arbitral tribunal for a binding decision outside of courts.

Mechanisms through which states resolve conflicts peacefully, including negotiation, mediation, and adjudication.

The WTO entity responsible for resolving trade disagreements between member countries through established legal procedures.