Committee publications
Global war, global trade: a Global Employment Institute perspective
The short report offers key insights on global trends in human resources law, including the impact of global war and conflicts, trade, ESG and artificial intelligence.
Released on Jul 2, 2025
Over the horizon technologies and legal innovation: emerging use cases for India Inc
This article explores the impact of over the horizon technologies such as quantum computing and others, while highlighting the critical role of interdisciplinary legal innovation.
Released on Jun 24, 2025
Diversity data collection in India: how should employers tread in the current era?
Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) seems to be at an inflection point in the Far West with the three concepts having witnessed quite a roller coaster ride in the recent past. The legislative framework in India, however, remains unchanged in promoting diversity and ensuring anti-discrimination. Keeping this in mind, employers are often curious about their ability to legally collect diversity data from their employees in India. In this article, the authors explore the nuances of continuing to collect diversity data in India in the dynamic DEI space.
Released on Jun 20, 2025
Five years on from launch of the IBA Climate Statement, climate and sustainability-conscious lawyering is more critical than ever
Much has happened in the five years since the IBA published its Climate Statement in 2020, affecting every facet of the legal profession. Read about key developments and future directions.
Released on Jun 20, 2025
Guidelines on the use of generative AI in mediation
These guidelines were prepared by the IBA Mediation Committee, reflecting our commitment to exploring the role of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in mediation practice
Released on Jun 19, 2025
Mandatory data protection compliance in Turkey: VERBIS registration and enforcement actions
This article examines Turkey’s mandatory registration regime related to the Data Controllers’ Registry Information System, otherwise known as VERBIS, under the country’s Data Protection Law No 6698 (Kişisel Verileri Koruma Kanunu or KVKK), highlighting the escalating enforcement risks for global companies and the urgent need for the adoption of proactive legal compliance strategies.
Released on Jun 19, 2025
Sustainability disclosure obligations for issuers in Mexico
This article explores Mexico’s transition from voluntary environmental, social and governance practices to the requirement that mandatory sustainability disclosures are made by securities issuers, highlighting the legal shift towards alignment with the International Sustainability Standards Board’s IFRS S1 and S2 standards and the increasing regulatory demand for assurance and transparency in regard to corporate reporting; and including recommendations for entities to comply with these new reporting standards.
Released on Jun 18, 2025
Navigating emerging markets: the synergy between strategic intelligence and legal services
The integration of legal expertise with strategic intelligence represents a transformative approach to facilitating business success in emerging markets. The Strategic Intelligence Service in Indonesia exemplifies this innovation, offering a comprehensive solution that combines legal advice with real-time policy insights and government relations support. This article explores the development, methodology and impact of the Strategic Intelligence Service, with a particular focus on Indonesia, a jurisdiction characterised by its regulatory complexity and significant investment potential.
Released on Jun 18, 2025
Aguas! Myths and reality of ESG: business opportunities for the legal profession and alternative business structures
A session report from the IBA Annual Conference in Mexico City, held on 19 September 2024.
Released on Jun 18, 2025
Adjacent businesses, regulatory barriers and virtual nomads
A session report from the IBA Annual Conference 2024 in Mexico City held on 16 September 2024
Released on Jun 18, 2025
Inspirational Legal Women: A conversation with Adeola Sunmola
An insightful discussion with Adeola Sunmola
Released on Jun 18, 2025
How AI can reshape anti-corruption compliance
The rise of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly generative AI, has captured the attention of legal and compliance professionals. Unlike generative AI, which primarily focuses on content creation, agentic AI ‘does’ rather than merely ‘creates’. This evolution signifies a shift from content generation to task execution and problem-solving, and holds great implications for compliance, where many tasks involve complex workflows and big data analysis that transcend simple content generation.
Released on Jun 9, 2025
Algeria Bid Round 2024: a strategic shift under the new Algerian hydrocarbon law
On 14 October 2024, Algeria launched its first upstream licensing round in a decade – Algeria Bid Round 2024 – under the new Hydrocarbon Law No. 19–13, marking a significant milestone in the country’s upstream oil and gas sector. This article examines the core features of the new legal and regulatory framework introduced by Law No. 19-13, including the new contractual models and fiscal incentives, and provides an overview of the bid round process launched by ALNAFT. It highlights key legal, procedural and commercial aspects relevant to international investors considering participation in Algeria’s renewed upstream sector.
Released on Jun 8, 2025
Inspirational legal women: a conversation with Akila Agrawal
An insightful discussion with Akila Agrawal
Released on Jun 3, 2025
Getting to Know the ERF – Lilli Parbo
Get to know the European Regional Forum’s Council Member for Finland, Lilli Parbo.
Released on Jun 3, 2025
Navigating 2024: the Italian venture capital biotech market and the crucial role of intellectual property assets as a deal maker or deal breaker
This article aims to provide a preliminary outline of the major venture capital (VC) trends in the life sciences sector targeting Italian biotech companies, mainly operating in certain specific sub-segments, as a result of it being ascertained that the Italian life sciences market ranked as one of the most funded industries by VC in 2024. The article focuses on the importance of intellectual property (IP) assets in VC life science deals, through a discussion of how IP generally qualify as a ‘deal maker’ or ‘deal breaker’, capable of having a significative impacts on all the phases of VC deals: (1) related to the due diligence process and regardless of whether the biotech is the IP owner or uses such IP in the context of a licence agreement; (2) taking into account specific peculiarities of the Italian legal framework, such as the reform of the so-called abolition of the professor’s privilege; and (iii) with a focus on the contractual structure of VC deals, by pointing out some of the most common closing conditions and the market standards in terms of the release of IP representations and warranties.
Released on Jun 2, 2025
The regulation of cultivated meat in Singapore and the US: lessons for Mexico
Despite its potential, cultivated meat remains a novel and scarcely adopted technology. Its unfamiliar production methods raise valid questions about regulation and food safety. Since cultivated meat is derived from animals, yet produced through biotechnology, it falls outside traditional regulatory frameworks for either conventional meat or genetically modified organisms. This article explores how Singapore and the United States, the first two countries to approve the release of cultivated meat for the consumer market, have addressed these challenges and discusses the lessons Mexico can draw from their experience in the developing its own regulatory framework for cultivated meat.
Released on Jun 2, 2025
The innovation pipeline in Mexico’s food, biotech and pharmaceutical sectors
Mexico’s life sciences sector is shifting from rigid regulatory frameworks towards systems that foster innovation, while maintaining safety standards. Driven by trade agreements, regional cooperation and digital transformation, these changes create investment opportunities and market expansion, across food, biotech and pharmaceutical industries. This article examines how some key sectors benefit from modernisation and harmonised regulatory efforts and how Mexico is emerging as an active participant in shaping life sciences regulation throughout Latin America, rather than merely adopting external standards.
Released on Jun 2, 2025
Telemedicine in Germany: legal framework, challenges and perspectives
Telemedicine has become more important in Germany since the Covid-19 pandemic. Such services include video consultations, teleconsultations and remote monitoring. Although telemedicine is generally permitted, it is subject to strict legal requirements, particularly in the context of statutory health insurance. Professional regulations, advertising law and data protection regulations set clear obligations in this context. Cross-border treatment, liability and reimbursement are also important legal aspects. The current laws, such as the Digital Healthcare Act and EU regulations, support digital healthcare services. However, clearer framework conditions are still required to ensure legally compliant and efficient implementation of such services, particularly with regard to artificial intelligence (AI)-driven tools, which offer new opportunities, but also raise legal uncertainties.
Released on Jun 2, 2025
Telemedicine in Argentina and the advanced practice of medicine
This article outlines the regulatory framework governing telemedicine in Argentina, examining the categories of teleservices permitted and the requirements that healthcare professionals, institutions and telemedicine service providers must comply with. It also discusses the main legal framework applicable to the advanced practice of medicine, characterised by the application of new technologies in the healthcare sector.
Released on Jun 2, 2025
Counterfeit pharmaceuticals: innovative strategies for combatting global health threats in the UK
The United Kingdom’s pharmaceutical industry faces substantial challenges from counterfeit pharmaceuticals, exacerbated by the rise of online pharmacies and drug shortages. This article explores innovative strategies to combat these threats, focusing on authentication technologies, public awareness campaigns and international collaboration. The UK has a robust regulatory framework, but there have been limited technological advancements as yet. However, initiatives like the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency’s use of AI in partnership with eBay and public campaigns, such as #FakeMeds and the Yellow Card scheme, highlight the ongoing efforts in this regard. The article underscores the need for continued innovation and global cooperation to effectively address the evolving counterfeit pharmaceuticals landscape.
Released on Jun 2, 2025
Trends in life sciences mergers and acquisitions, investment and strategic collaborations
This article highlights two trends in life sciences mergers and acquisitions (M&A) transactions. First, it highlights the increasing relevance of cybersecurity legislation in M&A transactions in regulated sectors, particularly in the healthcare, pharmaceutical and medical device sectors, with a focus on Belgium’s implementation of Directive (EU) 2022/2555 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 December 2022 on measures for a high common level of cybersecurity across the Union, otherwise known as the NIS2 Directive. Secondly, this article focuses on the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the Swiss healthcare sector, especially in regard to pharmaceuticals and diagnostics. AI-related risks are significant in M&A transactions. Although Switzerland doesn’t have a specific AI law, existing regulations apply, and Swiss companies may be affected by the extraterritorial reach of the European Union’s AI Act. Legislative changes are expected, and companies must ensure compliance with the relevant rules to remain attractive to investors.
Released on Jun 2, 2025
Pharmaceutical regulations in Uruguay and Paraguay: recent regulatory changes, trends and challenges
Pharmaceutical regulations in Uruguay and Paraguay have undergone significant changes aimed at strengthening oversight, streamlining the approval of innovative medicines and adapting to technological advancements. Constant change, international cooperation and the use of reliance mechanisms aim to optimise the management of pharmaceutical products and reduce approval times. Projections point towards greater regulatory harmonisation, which will enhance the sector’s competitiveness and improve access to innovative treatments. These developments contribute to the consolidation of a more dynamic regulatory framework, aligned with international standards, thus boosting system efficiency and ensuring the safe availability of medicines.
Released on Jun 2, 2025
Advances in the regulation of medicine pricing and advertising in Paraguay: the emphasis on transparency and consumer protection
In Paraguay, the regulation of medicine pricing is the responsibility of the National Health Surveillance Directorate (Dirección Nacional de Vigilancia Sanitaria or DINAVISA), which employs methodologies based on international standards to ensure fair and accessible prices. Recent regulatory amendments have introduced a pricing system that references the market values in other countries with similar regulations, aiming to promote fairness and transparency in the marketing of pharmaceutical products. Regarding medicine advertising, the regulatory framework includes restrictions to avoid the dissemination of misleading information and to ensure transparency. Notwithstanding the progress made in terms of regulating this part of the provision of healthcare, the advertising authorisation process is still carried out manually, highlighting the need for digital modernisation.
Released on Jun 2, 2025
Chile’s new data protection law and its effects on health data privacy
Chile’s new Data Privacy Law (Law No. 21,719) marks a relevant shift in the regulation of health data, broadening the legal bases for processing, strengthening individual rights and introducing robust enforcement mechanisms. Effective from December 2026, it creates a dedicated Data Protection Agency and sets forth rules on sensitive and special data categories, including health-related information. While consent remains central, the law allows data processing on broader grounds and, for the first time, mandates privacy impact assessments, breach notifications and a strict sanctions regime. While much of the reform’s impact will depend on the Data Protection Agency’s future actions concerning the implementation of the law, the new law brings Chile closer to global standards, balancing data subjects’ rights with the growing importance of health innovation.
Released on Jun 2, 2025
Hemp as a superfood: new products and an innovative industry facing regulatory challenges
Uruguay is integrating hemp-derived products into its food industry, which requires a clear legal framework to regulate its use that also fosters growth of the industry. The sector faces regulatory uncertainty, especially concerning tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) limits, food safety standards and export restrictions. While global demand for hemp-based superfoods is rising, national legislation remains fragmented. Companies like Goland are expanding their operations, but require harmonised regulations for sustainable development. Key measures include regulatory alignment, certification systems, public–private collaboration and consumer education. Addressing these gaps will position Uruguay as a leader in the hemp-based food market, while ensuring safety and compliance.
Released on Jun 2, 2025
Telemedicine and advanced medical practice in Uruguay
This article explores the regulatory, institutional and operational development of telemedicine in Uruguay, highlighting its evolution since the Covid-19 pandemic. It examines the benefits of this model, particularly in terms of accessibility and equity, and proposes a reform agenda for the advancement towards more sophisticated healthcare practices. Key challenges include interoperability, professional training, ethics, cybersecurity and quality evaluation. Ultimately, the article emphasises the need for a structural public policy that fully integrates telemedicine into the national health system.
Released on Jun 2, 2025
Patient access programmes/patient assistance programmes: legal benefits and challenges for patients
In 2023, the market for patient support programmes (PSPs) was valued at $18.82bn and is predicted to reach $64.36bn by 2031. These figures undoubtedly demonstrate the success of PSP initiatives around the world. However, due to the lack of a clear regulatory framework, PSPs face a variety of legal challenges. This article discusses the key legal aspects of PSPs by analysing the concept, genesis and main requirements in relation to PSPs. Also, the article examines the core challenges faced by the industry and provides practical solutions in order to ensure PSP compliance.
Released on Jun 2, 2025
Governing the future: bridging the gap between artificial intelligence, the law and regulation
This article addresses the necessity for legal frameworks and regulations to evolve in parallel with technological advancements. It focuses on artificial intelligence (AI), particularly its impact on the healthcare sector. The discussion covers the emerging regulatory landscape concerning AI in both the European Union and Turkey, including relevant guidelines and legislative developments. The article emphasises the importance of regulating AI applications in healthcare to ensure legal certainty, ethical compliance and data privacy.
Released on Jun 2, 2025
Gene therapies in Chile or the ‘torment of Tantalus’ between regulation and innovation
Health-related debates often emerge earlier in developed countries, but this does not mean they are irrelevant in developing nations, as diseases do not recognise borders. Thus, in a world driven by intense research and development, gene therapies have taken centre stage for companies, regulatory agencies and researchers alike. In countries, such as Chile, where the regulatory framework remains underdeveloped, discussions on the implementation of specific regulations in this field are critical, otherwise, not only will research be hindered, but public health may also be put at risk.
Released on Jun 2, 2025