Welcome to the International Section Committee on Central & Eastern Europe

Serhiy Hoshovsky, Esq. and Daniel Rothstein, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The CEE Committee’s geographical focus is Russia and the other formerly socialist countries of Europe.  The Committee’s activities focus on legal issues related to (a) the formerly socialist countries’ transition to private enterprise and a democratic form of government, (b) investment into and from those countries, and (c) their integration into international commercial and legal institutions and arrangements.  In developing its activities, the Committee seeks to cooperate with governments and bar organizations in the CEE region, and other NYSBA and ILPS committees, sections, and chapters.

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Welcome to the International Section Committee on Immigration and Nationality

COMMITTEE ON IMMIGRATION & NATIONALITY

Jan H. Brown, Esq.  and Matthew Stuart Dunn, Esq. chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

  The mission of the Immigration & Nationality Committee is to enhance the quality of immigration and nationality law and practice, and to grow the professional development of our members.  Through our seminars we seek to support members to competently pursue their law practice and to promote the delivery of competent ethical and lawful immigration services.  Also, through strategic partnerships with other lawyer committees, we encourage support for pro bono services and programs.  We also meet with representatives from government agencies so that our lawyers will have an increased understanding of the practical aspects of practicing immigration law.  The Committee also seeks to meet with non-governmental organizations to ensure that the administration of immigration policy serves the national interest and is administered justly. We also engage in outreach to the immigrant community on issues of relevance to them.

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Welcome to the International Section Committee on Int'l Banking, Sec. & Fin. Transactions

Joyce M. Hansen, Esq.  and Eberhard H. Rohm, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

Scope and Objective

The Committee is a forum where issues on banking law, securities regulations and financial transactions relevant to international law and practice are identified, addressed and acted upon. The core objective of the Committee is the continuous promotion of the work of the International Section of the NYSBA across the world.

General Mission

The Committee will

• exchange information related to legal issues in international banking law, securities regulations and financial transactions across the world;
• identify and interpret banking law, securities regulations and financial transactions issues relating to the practice of law in New York and across borders and prepare appropriate responses to New York or federal legislative initiatives;
• assist and actively participate in the planning and executing of programs for the fall meetings of the International Section of the NYSBA
• assist the NYSBA Annual Meeting and House of Delegates Meeting in the area of international banking law, securities regulations and financial transactions by presenting action plans for approval, by executing these programs and regularly reporting;
• promote membership in the International Section of the NYSBA and in the Committee;
• assist, advise and monitor work of regulatory agencies, industry groups and stakeholders related to decision making regarding international banking law, securities regulations and financial transactions,
• identify, interpret and monitor relevant developments relating to the area of international banking law, securities regulations and financial transactions and prepare appropriate responses.

Organizational Considerations

The Committee will report regularly to the Executive Committee of the International Section of the NYSBA and keep the members of the Committeeinvolved in Committee discussions.

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Welcome to the International Section Committee on Int'l Distribution, Sales & Marketing

Andre R. Jaglom, Esq., chair

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the International Distribution, Sales and Marketing Committee of the International Section is to share information concerning the varying laws around the world affecting the international distribution of goods and services and to recommend policy positions on the law of the State of New York and other jurisdictions affecting international distribution.

Goods and services can be distributed in a variety of ways, from direct distribution to the use of intermediaries such as commercial agents, independent distributors, franchisees, licensees and private label arrangements, among others. Different jurisdictions treat these methods very differently, from imposing restrictions on the ability to terminate, to varying treatment under antitrust and competition laws, to regulation of intellectual property licenses and controls over foreign ownership.

The Committee will seek to educate its members, members of the Section and of the Association, and the Bar generally, through CLE programs, articles and other means, with regard to the nature of these laws and legal developments in the field, and where appropriate, recommend positions on proposed legislation and similar matters.

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Committee on Int'l Insolvencies and Reorganizations

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Committee on Int'l Intellectual Property Protection

Eric Stenshoel, Esq. and L. Donald Prutzman, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the Intellectual Property Committee of the International Section is (1) to disseminate information concerning law and policy affecting intellectual property and related issues throughout the world, to recommend policy positions concerning United States intellectual property law as it relates to international business, the intellectual property laws of other countries and multi-country jurisdictions, and multi-lateral and bi-lateral treaties and trade agreements affecting intellectual property, and (2) to educate members of the Committee and the Section, the Association and the legal profession generally concerning intellectual property matters.

Virtually all businesses today use, and need legal advice concerning, one or more forms of intellectual property, including trademarks, copyrights, patents, Internet domain names, protected geographical designations, trade secrets and other varieties.  Members of the Bar need to advise clients that operate internationally concerning how to protect, acquire and exploit their own intellectual property and how to avoid infringing the intellectual property rights of others in the U.S. and parts of the world where they operate.  This requires knowledge concerning not only U.S. law, but the laws of other jurisdictions and a number of international agreements relating to intellectual property as well.

The Committee seeks to perform its education function through meetings, seminars, CLE programs, publication of articles and comments on proposed legislation and treaties affecting international intellectual property.  In or to strengthen these activities and to avoid duplication of effort, the Committee will seek to coordinate its activities where appropriate with the International Committee of the Intellectual Property Section of the New York State Bar Association.

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Committee on International Arbitration & ADR

Guillermo Aguilar-Alvarez, Esq. and Nancy M. Theveni, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The Committee on International Arbitration and Alternative Dispute Resolution (“ADR”) seeks to (1) promote the study and use of arbitration and other methods of ADR; (2) provide a forum for the discussion of global developments in these areas; and (3) increase communication, education and sharing of knowledge and experience among practitioners in the field.

The Committee shall carry out these goals by (a) organizing educational programs in the form of conferences, luncheons, or other formats; (b) working with local and international arbitration and ADR organizations to sponsor events and programs; (c)   advocating for local or international action aimed at fostering the use of arbitration and ADR for resolving international business disputes; and (d) becoming a resource for members of the Committee and the greater Association with questions about international arbitration and ADR.

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Committee on International Employment Law

Elizabeth I. Hook, Esq. and Aaron J. Schindel, Esq, chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

This committee is open to all lawyers interested in international employment law (including those who represent labor and management, as well as academicians and neutrals).  The committee’s mission is to provide a resource for education regarding, and development of, the laws relating to the employees of multinational enterprises, including: worker rights; employer rights and liabilities; employment issues arising in corporate mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures and other corporate transactions; rights and liabilities of organized labor; treaty obligations and enforcement,  and other legal issues regarding the regulation of the employment of workers by multinational enterprises.

In addition, the committee serves as a resource for labor and employment lawyers from countries throughout the world to meet colleagues and develop professional networks and resources. 

The committee generally presents at least one cle program annually, at the Section’s seasonal meeting.  Papers presented in the cle program are available to members of the Section and other participant’s at the seasonal meeting, and have been featured in the International Law Practicum and other publications.

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS

Santiago Corcuera, Esq. and Cynthia Lynn Ebbs, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The Human Rights Committee of the NYSBA International Section recognizes that members of the bar have a unique role in advocating on behalf of individual rights and promoting free and just societies throughout the world.  It similarly recognizes that human rights are best protected by a strong rule of law in the context of democratic governance. 

Accordingly, the Committee seeks to promote and protect human rights, as set forth in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, by (1) raising awareness about violations of human rights; (2) promoting the establishment of democratic governance and a strong rule of law; and (3) advocating for both the enactment and enforcement of laws in ways that protect human rights.  As part of the International Section, the Committee will focus specifically on the promotion of human rights in the international context. 

The Committee shall carry out its goals through (1) organizing educational programs; (2) advocating that governments and nongovernmental organizations take certain actions to promote and protect human rights; (3) connecting NYSBA members with projects that promote human rights, democracy, and the rule of law; and (4) other actions the Committee may deem beneficial to the promotion of human rights.

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL INVESTMENTS

Lawrence E. Shoenthal, Esq, chair

MISSIONSTATEMENT

The International Investments Committee is charged with issues that arise from clients making cross-border investments. The Committee is concerned with incentives and roadblocks to both inbound and outbound investments made by persons from outside the jurisdiction where the investment is made. The Committee also serves as a bridge between itself and other committees and organizations whose mission intercepts with the concerns of the Committee.

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL INVESTMENTS

Lawrence E. Shoenthal, Esq, chair

MISSIONSTATEMENT

The International Investments Committee is charged with issues that arise from clients making cross-border investments. The Committee is concerned with incentives and roadblocks to both inbound and outbound investments made by persons from outside the jurisdiction where the investment is made. The Committee also serves as a bridge between itself and other committees and organizations whose mission intercepts with the concerns of the Committee.

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL TRANSPORTATION

William Hull Hagendorn, Esq. and Neil A. Quartaro, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The International Transportation Committee will be a forum for the interchange of information among attorneys advising or representing clients involved in international transportation.  Member attorneys will include house counsel as well as independent and firm attorneys, in the United States and abroad.  Clients will include carriers and their suppliers, shippers of goods, passengers, insurers and their respective agencies. International Transportation includes transportation by air, sea and land which is international in whole or in part.

Subject matters of the information to be exchanged will include:

Existing law, recent and proposed legislation and regulation,

Transactions and litigation in New York and elsewhere,

Referrals of attorneys in other jurisdictions.

Depending on the interests, need and abilities of the Committee members, information can be sought and exchanged:

Via e-mail inquiry, responses and commentary, using a list of members maintained and serviced by the Association,

At periodic meetings of members, with or without presentations by members or invited experts or public officials,

By preparing and presenting a consensus opinion or recommendation on proposed legislation or regulation or pending litigation,

By publication of a member’s article in the Section’s Practicum or International Law Journal,

By preparing and presenting a segment of the Section’s program at the Association’s spring meeting or the Section’s fall meeting abroad, or participating as a panelist in such a program.

We hope that the Committee will attract a wide variety of attorneys with transportation as their common interest, who are not brought together in legal specialty or industry groups.

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COMMITTEE ON PUBLICATIONS-EDITORIAL BOARD

Thomas Backen, Esq., Professor Christopher J. Borgen, Esq., David W. Detjen, Esq., and Lester Nelson, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the Publications Committee of the International Section of the NY State Bar Association is to develop and produce the publications produced by the Section, namely the New York International Law Review, the Practicum and the Section newsletter with the goal of disseminating to members of the Section, to other members of the Association and to lawyers and law students  information about the activities of the Section and advice to lawyers engaged in international or cross-border practices, in publications, articles and in other ways on the subject of international and cross-border matters

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COMMITTEE ON THE UNITED NATIONS AND OTHER INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

Jeffrey C. Chancas, Esq. and Edward C. Mattes, Jr., Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The Committee on the United Nations and Other International Organizations of the NYSBA International Section serves as a liaison between the New York State Bar Association and the United Nations and other international organizations.  A primary goal is to raise awareness among practitioners of the policies, the prevalent ideas and the work done at the United Nations through lectures by prominent individuals who are currently or were formerly affiliated with the United Nations.

Among those who have lectured to members of the state bar and other invited guests include: the UN’s Under Secretary General for Legal Affairs and Legal Counsel, executive directors of various offices and programs at the UN and presidents and dignitaries of member states of the UN.

The Committee anticipates presenting similar prominent individuals to address current topics next year.  The upcoming change in administration due to the United States presidential election should present an opportunity to address possible changing perspectives within member states of the United Nations.

In May 2008, the Committee held a luncheon at the UN attended by members of the section and guests, including students from the Princeton University International Relations Counsel, one of whose members is Carolyn Edelstein, the granddaughter of section founder, Lauren D. Rachlin.  The luncheon was organized and hosted by the Committee’s co-chairs, Edward C. Mattes, Jr., and Jeffrey C. Chancas, following a suggestion for such a luncheon by Mr. Rachlin.  The luncheon speaker was Mr. Amir Dossal, Executive Director of the United Nations Office for Partnerships.  Mr. Dossal’s topic was: “How Ted Turner’s Philanthropy Gave Rise to a New Era in United Nations Partnerships.”  The luncheon afforded the Princeton students the opportunity for an up close and personal exchange with a senior member of the UN Secretariat and with the section members and afforded all in attendance the opportunity to learn about a fascinating aspect of the UN’s work.  After the luncheon, the students and some of the attorneys went on a personal tour of the UN conducted by a member of Mr. Dossal’s staff.

This type of a luncheon could be repeated and would serve to apprise practitioners and students of various aspects of the UN’s work and to introduce students, whether undergraduate, graduate or law students, to the section.  Such lectures could furnish a valuable opportunity to increase the section’s future membership.

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INTER-AMERICAN COMMITTEE

Carlos E. Alfaro, Esq. and Alyssa A. Grikscheit, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The goals of the Inter-American Committee are (1) develop among its members an understanding of issues arising in various legal regimes in the Americas; (2) create a robust network of legal practitioners in the Americas; and (3) exchange updates on issues of interest to Committee members regarding developments in corporate, trade, tax and other areas of the law applicable to cross-border practice on projects in the Americas.

To achieve these goals, the Inter-American Committee will engage in the following activities (1) hold meetings of its members; (2) organize substantive discussions of relevant issues at meetings of the International Section ; (3) coordinate with other Committees and other Sections of the New York State Bar Association; (4) contribute content to the publications of the International Section and New York State Bar Association; and (5) create networking opportunities for its members.

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Committee on Public International Law

Professor Christopher J. Borgen, Esq., chair

Mission Statement

New York is a center not only of international commerce, but of international law and diplomacy. In that light, the Committee on Public International Law seeks to foster the following goals:

1. To educate the public and the bar about public international law and its role in international commerce and in world affairs;
2. To disseminate information about recent developments in public international law;
3. To provide a forum for the discussion of important current issues and controversies;
4. To bring together practicing lawyers and public officials engaged in matters of public international law;
5. To promote the rule of law; and
6. To work with other committees of the Section and with other lawyers from throughout the State, the nation and the world to achieve these goals.

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Committee on Insurance & Reinsurance

Howard A. Fischer, Esq. and Chiahua Pan, Esq.

MissionStatement

The International Section Insurance & Reinsurance Committee was established in early 2007 to provide a New York-based forum for international counsel with in-house or law firm practices concerning insurance, reinsurance, and insurance-related business such as international inward and outward investment by insurance/reinsurance companies, wherever situated. The Committee seeks to provide its members with multiple opportunities through various initiatives to interact with those American and foreign colleagues who share their interests in the international insurance and reinsurance practice areas, and to keep abreast of current critical issues and legal trends in those areas.   The Committee seeks to develop an open, culturally and geographically diverse membership not restricted to NY attorneys but available to all international insurance/reinsurance attorneys wherever they practice.

To achieve those goals, the Committee will hold 3-4 meetings annually with teleconference facilities available to those who cannot attend in person.Ad hoc meetings on particularly important issues and with guest speakers may also be scheduled. Programs or presentations, preferably eligible for CLE credit, will be developed or sponsored, and any opportunity to work with other related Sections or International Section Committees will be encouraged. A news publication dedicated to providing timely global insurance and reinsurance alerts will be developed as a separate publication and/or in conjunction with the Section’s Newsletter. The Committee plans to develop programs for presentation at the Section’s Fall and/or Annual Meetings. Finally, the Committee will strive to regularly elicit members’ opinions and suggestions as to how to most effectively address their areas of interest and to expand their networking opportunities.

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL ENTERTAINMENT AND SPORTS LAW

Gordon W. Esau, Esq. and Howard Z. Robbins, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

To foster contact and the exchange of information among New York attorneys practicing in the international arena of the sports and entertainment industries.

The Committee on International Entertainment and Sports Law will carry out those goals through organizing educational programs and connecting members of the Committee with each other and through projects that could benefit from their assistance.

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New York State Bar Association

International Section

Committee on International Practice Management

MISSION STATEMENT

The Committee on International Practice Management will be available to all members of the International Section of the New York State Bar Association who have responsibility for, or an interest in, the management of international legal practices and will serve as a clearing house for, and a forum for the discussion and exchange of information and ideas of and about, best practices, current issues, and all other matters relating to the proper and effective management of international legal practices. 

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL LITIGATION

John N. Fellas, Esq. and Thomas N. Pieper, Esq, chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

Modern means of technology and transportation have led to an unprecedented increase in international commerce.  Consumers routinely order products from abroad over the Internet; companies spread manufacturing, marketing, and distribution over various countries; and financial investors operate on a world-wide scale.  Where there are commercial transactions, there are disputes, and if the transactions are international, so are the disputes.  But while commerce transcends traditional geographic boundaries with increasing ease, the law does not always follow.  National legal schemes may be converging, but they still are autonomous, often diverging or overlapping, and almost always provide for special rules that apply in the international context.  International disputes are thus increasing in number, complexity, and variation, and include international litigations, arbitrations, and regulatory investigations.

While interested in all forms of international disputes, this Committee focuses on International Litigation.  The goals of the International Litigation Committee are to (1)enhance specialized knowledge and skills required to conduct legal proceedings involving multiple jurisdictions; (2) develop among its members an understanding of the various legal norms and international treaties involved; (3) create and maintain a global network of international litigators; and (4) explore the connections and overlaps between international litigation and other legal disciplines, in particular other forms of international dispute resolution (including arbitration, meditation, and regulatory investigation).

To achieve these goals, the International Litigation Committee will engage in the following activities: (1) hold meetings of and for its members; (2) organize substantive discussions of international litigation issues at meetings of the International Section and other events; (3) coordinate with other Committees and Sections of the New York State Bar Association and other suitable organizations; (4) contribute content to the publications of the International Section and New York State Bar Association; and (5) create networking opportunities for its members.

(last revised 1/26/2009)

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Committee on International Privacy Law

Audrey Davidson Cunningham, Esq. and Lisa J. Sotto, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The Mission of the Committee on International Privacy Law is to provide a forum for international privacy law practitioners for the exchange of legal developments, knowledge and experience that will enable those lawyers to practice law more effectively in an ever-changing global environment.

The Committee on International Privacy Law is dedicated to achieving the goals of:

1.   Increased communication, education and sharing of knowledge and experience among privacy lawyers who engage in the practice of international privacy law;

2.   the facilitation of the exchange of information and ideas involving issues of international privacy law; and

3.   the creation and development of activities and continuing legal education opportunities that will enable international privacy lawyers to better represent their clients.

MISSION RELATED ACTIVITES

The Committee on International Privacy Law of the International Section:

1.   Holds events concerning international privacy law for members of the New York State Bar Association;

2.   conducts meetings of the Committee to provide programs and CLE for international privacy lawyers on subjects of international privacy law, including presentations by distinguished privacy professionals;

3.   fosters exchange of information, ideas and international privacy strategies among international privacy lawyers; and

4.   coordinates Committee activities with other groups that share a similar mission, such as the New York Privacy Officers’ Forum and the International Association of Privacy Professionals.

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

MISSION STATEMENT

  The goals of the Committee are (i) to create a forum for the discussion of hot topics and current developments affecting both U.S.  and foreign real estate; (ii) establish a network of world-wide real estate practitioners; (iii)  develop an exchange among members with  respect to areas of  cross-border real estate transactions, including, structuring , financing, taxation   and legal opinions;  and  (iv) explore the connections and overlaps between   international real estate transactions and related practice areas.

To achieve these goals, the International Real Estate Transactions Committee will engage in the following activities: (i) hold meetings of its members; (ii) publish   articles authored by committee members on topics of interest; (iii) arrange programs including web conferencing   with the participation of Chapter Chairs and members who are overseas; (iv) create networking opportunities for its members; and (v) coordinate   programs of mutual interest with other Committees and Sections of the New York State Bar Association, as well as other bar associations.

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Committee on International Estate and Trust Law

Glenn G. Fox, Esq. and Michael W. Galligan, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The primary focus of the Committee on International Estate and Trust Law of the NYSBA International Section is to bring together estate and trust practitioners from around the world in order to determine the most effective way to plan for clients with assets in multiple jurisdictions, especially in light of the differences in the succession and tax laws in the civil and common law jurisdictions.    Another important goal is to raise awareness among practitioners of the International Section who do not practice trusts and estates law of how international trust and estate issues may impact their areas of practice.

The Committee is currently focusing on areas of New York law that will make New York a jurisdiction that supports estate planning for international families and a forum from which it is easy to administer estates and trusts with international connections.  We want to inform both New York and non-New York lawyers about the ways New York law is conducive to international estate planning and work to reform  New York law with respect to those areas of New York law that could better facilitate international estate and trust administration.  We have and continue to meet out goals by inviting speakers from foreign jurisdictions to address our committee on topics of interest, propose state and federal legislation to make it easier for clients with contacts in other countries to implement more streamlined estate plans, and conduct CLE courses oriented towards increasing knowledge and awareness of international trusts and estates among attorneys and legal professionals in New York and beyond New York.

The Committee played an important role in renewing interest in the ratification by the United States of the 1985 Hague Convention on the Recognition of Trusts and will be looking for new opportunities to promote US ratification after the current election season.  The legislative projects the Committee is working on include a proposed amendment to the New York Surrogate’s Court Procedures Act, currently in draft, that would enable inter-vivos trusts to register as New York trusts.

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COMMITTEE ON CORPORATE COUNSEL
(Barbara M. Levi and Allison B. Tomlinson)

MISSION STATEMENT

The Corporate Counsel Committee of the International Section of the New York State Bar Association is comprised of attorneys who serve as in-house counsel to corporations and other business entities, as well as attorneys in law firms, government, and academic institutions. The Committee members collaborate on activities that enhance the role of in-house corporate counsel as contributing members and leaders of their communities, the legal profession and the Bar Association, and provide a medium for cooperation, encouragement and assistance in the resolution of problems common to them and the legal profession, to their mutual benefit and the benefit of the membership of the Bar Association, the legal profession at large, the substantive body of law in New York, and the general administration of justice throughout the state.

The Committee sponsors roundtable discussions, continuing legal education and networking events geared toward corporate counsel several times throughout the year.

For further information, please contact Co-chairs, Barbara Levi at barbara.levi@unilever.com or Allison B. Tomlinson at tomlinson@pbworld.com.

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL ANTITRUST AND COMPETITION LAW
(Olivier N. Antoine and Boris M. Kasten)

MISSION STATEMENT

The Committee's activities focus on legal issues related to (i) merger control, (ii) cartel enforcement, (iii) vertical restraints, (iv) single-firm conduct, and (v) antitrust compliance. With a view to those issues, the mission of the International Antitrust and Competition Law Committee is (a) to foster discussion about the nature, objectives and quality of international antitrust law and practice by stimulating debate among its members as well as with other players in the international competition law community, and (b) to provide a forum to grow the professional development of its members.

In order to achieve its aims, the Committee seeks to develop a membership consisting not only of attorneys admitted in the State of New York, but open to all international antitrust practitioners in the private and public field.

In developing its activities, the Committee seeks to interact with regulatory agencies, bar organizations and academic institutions worldwide, as well as with other NYSBA and ILPS committees, sections and chapters. The Committee intends to sponsor roundtable discussions and create networking opportunities geared toward international antitrust counsel as well as representatives of antitrust regulators.

For further information, please contact Co-chairs Olivier N. Antoine (oantoine@crowell.com) or Boris M. Kasten (boris.kasten@hengeler.com).

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL LAW
(John Hanna, Jr., Andrew D. Otis, and Mark F. Rosenberg)

MISSION STATEMENT

The physical environment transcends national borders.  Environmental law has followed in treaties, customary law and national regulations.  Multinational business and non-governmental organizations must comply with this patchwork of applicable laws. 

The goals of the International Environmental Law Committee are to (1) develop among its members an understanding of the various environmental legal regimes and treaties; (2) promote the rule of law in the development of sustainable national and international policies; (3) create a robust world-wide network of environmental legal practitioners; and (4) explore the connections and overlaps between environmental law and other legal disciplines.

To achieve these goals, the International Environmental Law Committee will engage in the following activities (1) hold meetings of its members; (2) organize substantive discussions of environmental law issues at meetings of the International Section ; (3) coordinate with other Committees and other Sections of the New York State Bar Association; (4) contribute content to the publications of the International Section and New York State Bar Association; and (5) create networking opportunities for its members.

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S RIGHTS

Shannon P. McNulty, Esq. and Denise Scotto, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The International Women’s Rights Committee advances the progress of the world’s women by (1) raising awareness about current legal barriers which significantly impede women’s development; (2) supporting the reform of laws that hinder women’s advancement; and (3) implementing existing laws to promote and protect the rights of women globally. 

The IWRC shall carry out these goals through (1) organizing educational programs; (2) advocating for certain actions to support women’s rights; (3) and connecting members of the IWRC and the greater Association with international women’s rights projects that could benefit from their assistance.

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Committee on International Creditor's Rights

David R. Franklin, Esq., chair

MISSION STATEMENT

International trade brings great opportunity for business profit, but also exposes the supplier of goods and services to financial risk and unpaid trade debt.

The rights of creditors in the international forum relies heavily on international treaties, plus the ‘local’ debtor/creditor laws of the appropriate jurisdiction.   Lawyers advising multinational businesses engaged in international trade should be familiar with the legal obstacles and challenges to the rights of creditors in the international arena.

The goals of the International Creditor’s Rights Committee are to:

1. develop among the members an understanding of various legal doctrines and treaties dealing with international creditor’s rights;

2. promote the rule of law in the development of sustainable national and international policies;

3. to create an active world-wide network of creditor’s rights legal practitioners; and

4. study the connections and overlaps between creditor’s rights law and other legal disciplines.

To achieve these goals the International Creditor’s Rights Committee will engage in the following activities:

1. hold meetings of its members;

2. organize substantive discussions of creditor’s rights law issues at meetings of the International Law Section;

3. coordinate with other Committees and other Sections of the New York State Bar Association;

4. contribute content to the publications of the International Law Section and New York State Bar Association; and

5. create networking opportunities for its members.

6. lobby where appropriate to introduce new legislation designed to enhance collection of international debts.

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FOREIGN LAWYERS COMMITTEE

(Albert Garrofe and Maria Tufvesson Shuk)

MISSION STATEMENT

The Foreign Lawyers Committee (FLC) was revived in 2008 to promote the interests of foreign attorneys (including those with a degree also from an American law school and those admitted also to the New York Bar) in the field of private international law.  To achieve its goal, FLC will provide different types of gatherings covering legal topics of interests for international lawyers and networking opportunities for such lawyers and law students.  These networking opportunities will include larger gatherings (e.g., luncheon presentations, cocktail hours), smaller gatherings, and one-on-one meetings, as well as contact via email.  The FLC networking opportunities are designed to provide a professional and welcoming environment for foreign lawyers of all levels and backgrounds, to meet and learn from each other as well as to exchange legal thoughts and engage in hearty discussions on subjects of interest to us.  In addition, FLC will co-host substantive programs with other International Section committees, which programs are of interest to FLC members.

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Welcome to the International Section Committee on Asia and the Pacific Region

Lawrence A. Darby, III, Chair

Mission Statement

The Asia-Pacific region has grown very rapidly in economic and political importance in recent years and this growth has been accompanied by a corresponding increase in the importance of law and legal institutions as well.   With this in mind, the Mission of the Asia-Pacific Law Committee is to improve the understanding of the role of law in promoting the interests of clients doing business and the legal environment in the Asia-Pacific region and to foster interchange of ideas and personal relations between lawyers practicing in New York and their counterparts practicing in Asia-Pacific jurisdictions. 

The Committee’s main focus is legal education considered in the broad sense.   Members of the Committee are encouraged to participate in Section meetings that are held in Asia such as the past meetings in Hong Kong and Shanghai and the Fall 2009 and 2010 meetings in Singapore and Australia, including organizing panels on current legal topics affecting the region and the development of law in Asia.  To better appreciate the historical development and function of law in Asian societies and the place of law in Asian cultures, the Committee encourages members to meet with each other when traveling on business and on vacation.  Although the wide geographic disparity of Committee memberships makes it inconvenient to hold meetings other than at annual events of the Section, members are encouraged to communicate with each other concerning legal developments of interest through Section e-mail lists and social networking sites such as LinkedIn.

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Welcome to the International Section Committee on Europe

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Committee on International Art Law, Art Funds and Art Finance

Enrique Liberman, Esq., Chair

Welcome to the International Section Committee on International Microfinance and Financial Inclusion

Azish Filabi, Esq. and Julee Milham, Esq., Co-Chairs

Microfinance and Inclusive Finance are characterized by the provision of financial services (such as savings, loans, insurance and remittances) to people who have been left out of the traditional banking systems, often low-income individuals who lack collateral and credit history.  Microfinance is widely viewed as a sustainable solution to alleviating poverty.

Mission Statement

The Committee on International Microfinance and Financial Inclusion supports the expansion of microfinance and other methods of financial inclusion via both commercial and non-profit sectors.  As a cross-cutting discipline, microfinance and legal issues relating to financial inclusion are areas that impact various work streams, including, for example, banking and e-banking, international investment, insurance, secured transactions, security interests, alternative dispute resolution, poverty eradication, and women's rights.

Just as the fields of microfinance and financial inclusion act as a "natural glue" among many disciplines, they also weave together the corresponding interests of various NYSBA committees and chapters.  Both funding countries and recipient countries have high stake interests in the advancement of this sector, and the Committee provides a natural environment for such parties to exchange views and work together.

Proposed activities the Committee explores include those to:

1.  Provide input in to the work of standard-setting bodies (e.g., BASEL, the World Bank, the UN) and promote the development of best practices.

2. Establish relationships and mutual projects with NYSBA International Section Chapters, particularly in  countries where microfinance plays a more prominent role in poverty alleviation agendas

3.  Monitor legislation, both in the US and abroad, through coordination with NYSBA International Section Chapters for monitoring of foreign government legislation

4.  Establish relationships with and provide relevant information to donors, funders, lenders, and other investors in microfinance

5.  Create written content and educational programs internally and externally (e.g., provide content to NYSBA for publications or CLEs, raise the profile of NYSBA among external organizations, publications, and other venues)

6.  Provide opportunities for networking with other NYSBA committees and sections, substantive and geographical, inside NYSBA and with external bars internationally and domestically

7.  Assist law schools with educational curriculum, clinics and other forums to promote research and understanding of topics in financial inclusion

8.  Assist and encourage governments in facilitating the sector by providing research, support statements, and similar assistance

9.  Facilitate the education of microfinance institutions in the field on legal issues

10.  Serve as a resource of information and people to other committees and sections within NYSBA

11.  Provide a networking and discussion forum for microfinance-related NYSBA attorneys, who currently have no trade organization

12.  Facilitate discussion of microfinance and financial inclusion among various

       a.  legal systems (e.g. civil vs. common law)

       b.  banking systems (e.g. Islamic/participatory, and mobile)

       c.  currency systems (e.g, actual, virtual, and complementary), and

       d.  government systems (e.g., democratic, theocratic, socialist), and

       e.  economic systems (e.g., capitalist, communist, protectionist)

Int'l Section Note to UNCITRAL re: Microfinance 

For more information about this Committee, please contact Azish Filabi at Azish.Filabi@ny.frb.org or Julee Milham at julee@milhamLaw.com.

Committee Roster 

AFRICA COMMITTEE

Janiece Brown Spitzmueller, Esq. and Hon. George Bundy Smith  - Co-Chairs

Committee on International Contract and Commercial Law

International Contract and Commercial Law Committee New York Contracts Checklist (PDF) - this resource is for Section members only and requires login to access

Committee Roster

COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL TRADE

Updated information coming soon! 

Welcome to the International Section Committee on Central & Eastern Europe

Serhiy Hoshovsky, Esq. and Daniel Rothstein, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The CEE Committee’s geographical focus is Russia and the other formerly socialist countries of Europe.  The Committee’s activities focus on legal issues related to (a) the formerly socialist countries’ transition to private enterprise and a democratic form of government, (b) investment into and from those countries, and (c) their integration into international commercial and legal institutions and arrangements.  In developing its activities, the Committee seeks to cooperate with governments and bar organizations in the CEE region, and other NYSBA and ILPS committees, sections, and chapters.

Committee Roster

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Welcome to the International Section Committee on Immigration and Nationality

COMMITTEE ON IMMIGRATION & NATIONALITY

Jan H. Brown, Esq.  and Matthew Stuart Dunn, Esq. chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

  The mission of the Immigration & Nationality Committee is to enhance the quality of immigration and nationality law and practice, and to grow the professional development of our members.  Through our seminars we seek to support members to competently pursue their law practice and to promote the delivery of competent ethical and lawful immigration services.  Also, through strategic partnerships with other lawyer committees, we encourage support for pro bono services and programs.  We also meet with representatives from government agencies so that our lawyers will have an increased understanding of the practical aspects of practicing immigration law.  The Committee also seeks to meet with non-governmental organizations to ensure that the administration of immigration policy serves the national interest and is administered justly. We also engage in outreach to the immigrant community on issues of relevance to them.

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Welcome to the International Section Committee on Int'l Banking, Sec. & Fin. Transactions

Joyce M. Hansen, Esq.  and Eberhard H. Rohm, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

Scope and Objective

The Committee is a forum where issues on banking law, securities regulations and financial transactions relevant to international law and practice are identified, addressed and acted upon. The core objective of the Committee is the continuous promotion of the work of the International Section of the NYSBA across the world.

General Mission

The Committee will

• exchange information related to legal issues in international banking law, securities regulations and financial transactions across the world;
• identify and interpret banking law, securities regulations and financial transactions issues relating to the practice of law in New York and across borders and prepare appropriate responses to New York or federal legislative initiatives;
• assist and actively participate in the planning and executing of programs for the fall meetings of the International Section of the NYSBA
• assist the NYSBA Annual Meeting and House of Delegates Meeting in the area of international banking law, securities regulations and financial transactions by presenting action plans for approval, by executing these programs and regularly reporting;
• promote membership in the International Section of the NYSBA and in the Committee;
• assist, advise and monitor work of regulatory agencies, industry groups and stakeholders related to decision making regarding international banking law, securities regulations and financial transactions,
• identify, interpret and monitor relevant developments relating to the area of international banking law, securities regulations and financial transactions and prepare appropriate responses.

Organizational Considerations

The Committee will report regularly to the Executive Committee of the International Section of the NYSBA and keep the members of the Committeeinvolved in Committee discussions.

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Welcome to the International Section Committee on Int'l Distribution, Sales & Marketing

Andre R. Jaglom, Esq., chair

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the International Distribution, Sales and Marketing Committee of the International Section is to share information concerning the varying laws around the world affecting the international distribution of goods and services and to recommend policy positions on the law of the State of New York and other jurisdictions affecting international distribution.

Goods and services can be distributed in a variety of ways, from direct distribution to the use of intermediaries such as commercial agents, independent distributors, franchisees, licensees and private label arrangements, among others. Different jurisdictions treat these methods very differently, from imposing restrictions on the ability to terminate, to varying treatment under antitrust and competition laws, to regulation of intellectual property licenses and controls over foreign ownership.

The Committee will seek to educate its members, members of the Section and of the Association, and the Bar generally, through CLE programs, articles and other means, with regard to the nature of these laws and legal developments in the field, and where appropriate, recommend positions on proposed legislation and similar matters.

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Committee on Int'l Insolvencies and Reorganizations

Committee Roster

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Committee on Int'l Intellectual Property Protection

Eric Stenshoel, Esq. and L. Donald Prutzman, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the Intellectual Property Committee of the International Section is (1) to disseminate information concerning law and policy affecting intellectual property and related issues throughout the world, to recommend policy positions concerning United States intellectual property law as it relates to international business, the intellectual property laws of other countries and multi-country jurisdictions, and multi-lateral and bi-lateral treaties and trade agreements affecting intellectual property, and (2) to educate members of the Committee and the Section, the Association and the legal profession generally concerning intellectual property matters.

Virtually all businesses today use, and need legal advice concerning, one or more forms of intellectual property, including trademarks, copyrights, patents, Internet domain names, protected geographical designations, trade secrets and other varieties.  Members of the Bar need to advise clients that operate internationally concerning how to protect, acquire and exploit their own intellectual property and how to avoid infringing the intellectual property rights of others in the U.S. and parts of the world where they operate.  This requires knowledge concerning not only U.S. law, but the laws of other jurisdictions and a number of international agreements relating to intellectual property as well.

The Committee seeks to perform its education function through meetings, seminars, CLE programs, publication of articles and comments on proposed legislation and treaties affecting international intellectual property.  In or to strengthen these activities and to avoid duplication of effort, the Committee will seek to coordinate its activities where appropriate with the International Committee of the Intellectual Property Section of the New York State Bar Association.

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Committee on International Arbitration & ADR

Guillermo Aguilar-Alvarez, Esq. and Nancy M. Theveni, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The Committee on International Arbitration and Alternative Dispute Resolution (“ADR”) seeks to (1) promote the study and use of arbitration and other methods of ADR; (2) provide a forum for the discussion of global developments in these areas; and (3) increase communication, education and sharing of knowledge and experience among practitioners in the field.

The Committee shall carry out these goals by (a) organizing educational programs in the form of conferences, luncheons, or other formats; (b) working with local and international arbitration and ADR organizations to sponsor events and programs; (c)   advocating for local or international action aimed at fostering the use of arbitration and ADR for resolving international business disputes; and (d) becoming a resource for members of the Committee and the greater Association with questions about international arbitration and ADR.

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Committee on International Employment Law

Elizabeth I. Hook, Esq. and Aaron J. Schindel, Esq, chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

This committee is open to all lawyers interested in international employment law (including those who represent labor and management, as well as academicians and neutrals).  The committee’s mission is to provide a resource for education regarding, and development of, the laws relating to the employees of multinational enterprises, including: worker rights; employer rights and liabilities; employment issues arising in corporate mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures and other corporate transactions; rights and liabilities of organized labor; treaty obligations and enforcement,  and other legal issues regarding the regulation of the employment of workers by multinational enterprises.

In addition, the committee serves as a resource for labor and employment lawyers from countries throughout the world to meet colleagues and develop professional networks and resources. 

The committee generally presents at least one cle program annually, at the Section’s seasonal meeting.  Papers presented in the cle program are available to members of the Section and other participant’s at the seasonal meeting, and have been featured in the International Law Practicum and other publications.

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS

Santiago Corcuera, Esq. and Cynthia Lynn Ebbs, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The Human Rights Committee of the NYSBA International Section recognizes that members of the bar have a unique role in advocating on behalf of individual rights and promoting free and just societies throughout the world.  It similarly recognizes that human rights are best protected by a strong rule of law in the context of democratic governance. 

Accordingly, the Committee seeks to promote and protect human rights, as set forth in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, by (1) raising awareness about violations of human rights; (2) promoting the establishment of democratic governance and a strong rule of law; and (3) advocating for both the enactment and enforcement of laws in ways that protect human rights.  As part of the International Section, the Committee will focus specifically on the promotion of human rights in the international context. 

The Committee shall carry out its goals through (1) organizing educational programs; (2) advocating that governments and nongovernmental organizations take certain actions to promote and protect human rights; (3) connecting NYSBA members with projects that promote human rights, democracy, and the rule of law; and (4) other actions the Committee may deem beneficial to the promotion of human rights.

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL INVESTMENTS

Lawrence E. Shoenthal, Esq, chair

MISSIONSTATEMENT

The International Investments Committee is charged with issues that arise from clients making cross-border investments. The Committee is concerned with incentives and roadblocks to both inbound and outbound investments made by persons from outside the jurisdiction where the investment is made. The Committee also serves as a bridge between itself and other committees and organizations whose mission intercepts with the concerns of the Committee.

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL INVESTMENTS

Lawrence E. Shoenthal, Esq, chair

MISSIONSTATEMENT

The International Investments Committee is charged with issues that arise from clients making cross-border investments. The Committee is concerned with incentives and roadblocks to both inbound and outbound investments made by persons from outside the jurisdiction where the investment is made. The Committee also serves as a bridge between itself and other committees and organizations whose mission intercepts with the concerns of the Committee.

Committee Roster

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL TRANSPORTATION

William Hull Hagendorn, Esq. and Neil A. Quartaro, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The International Transportation Committee will be a forum for the interchange of information among attorneys advising or representing clients involved in international transportation.  Member attorneys will include house counsel as well as independent and firm attorneys, in the United States and abroad.  Clients will include carriers and their suppliers, shippers of goods, passengers, insurers and their respective agencies. International Transportation includes transportation by air, sea and land which is international in whole or in part.

Subject matters of the information to be exchanged will include:

Existing law, recent and proposed legislation and regulation,

Transactions and litigation in New York and elsewhere,

Referrals of attorneys in other jurisdictions.

Depending on the interests, need and abilities of the Committee members, information can be sought and exchanged:

Via e-mail inquiry, responses and commentary, using a list of members maintained and serviced by the Association,

At periodic meetings of members, with or without presentations by members or invited experts or public officials,

By preparing and presenting a consensus opinion or recommendation on proposed legislation or regulation or pending litigation,

By publication of a member’s article in the Section’s Practicum or International Law Journal,

By preparing and presenting a segment of the Section’s program at the Association’s spring meeting or the Section’s fall meeting abroad, or participating as a panelist in such a program.

We hope that the Committee will attract a wide variety of attorneys with transportation as their common interest, who are not brought together in legal specialty or industry groups.

Committee Roster

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COMMITTEE ON PUBLICATIONS-EDITORIAL BOARD

Thomas Backen, Esq., Professor Christopher J. Borgen, Esq., David W. Detjen, Esq., and Lester Nelson, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the Publications Committee of the International Section of the NY State Bar Association is to develop and produce the publications produced by the Section, namely the New York International Law Review, the Practicum and the Section newsletter with the goal of disseminating to members of the Section, to other members of the Association and to lawyers and law students  information about the activities of the Section and advice to lawyers engaged in international or cross-border practices, in publications, articles and in other ways on the subject of international and cross-border matters

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COMMITTEE ON THE UNITED NATIONS AND OTHER INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

Jeffrey C. Chancas, Esq. and Edward C. Mattes, Jr., Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The Committee on the United Nations and Other International Organizations of the NYSBA International Section serves as a liaison between the New York State Bar Association and the United Nations and other international organizations.  A primary goal is to raise awareness among practitioners of the policies, the prevalent ideas and the work done at the United Nations through lectures by prominent individuals who are currently or were formerly affiliated with the United Nations.

Among those who have lectured to members of the state bar and other invited guests include: the UN’s Under Secretary General for Legal Affairs and Legal Counsel, executive directors of various offices and programs at the UN and presidents and dignitaries of member states of the UN.

The Committee anticipates presenting similar prominent individuals to address current topics next year.  The upcoming change in administration due to the United States presidential election should present an opportunity to address possible changing perspectives within member states of the United Nations.

In May 2008, the Committee held a luncheon at the UN attended by members of the section and guests, including students from the Princeton University International Relations Counsel, one of whose members is Carolyn Edelstein, the granddaughter of section founder, Lauren D. Rachlin.  The luncheon was organized and hosted by the Committee’s co-chairs, Edward C. Mattes, Jr., and Jeffrey C. Chancas, following a suggestion for such a luncheon by Mr. Rachlin.  The luncheon speaker was Mr. Amir Dossal, Executive Director of the United Nations Office for Partnerships.  Mr. Dossal’s topic was: “How Ted Turner’s Philanthropy Gave Rise to a New Era in United Nations Partnerships.”  The luncheon afforded the Princeton students the opportunity for an up close and personal exchange with a senior member of the UN Secretariat and with the section members and afforded all in attendance the opportunity to learn about a fascinating aspect of the UN’s work.  After the luncheon, the students and some of the attorneys went on a personal tour of the UN conducted by a member of Mr. Dossal’s staff.

This type of a luncheon could be repeated and would serve to apprise practitioners and students of various aspects of the UN’s work and to introduce students, whether undergraduate, graduate or law students, to the section.  Such lectures could furnish a valuable opportunity to increase the section’s future membership.

Committee Roster

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INTER-AMERICAN COMMITTEE

Carlos E. Alfaro, Esq. and Alyssa A. Grikscheit, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The goals of the Inter-American Committee are (1) develop among its members an understanding of issues arising in various legal regimes in the Americas; (2) create a robust network of legal practitioners in the Americas; and (3) exchange updates on issues of interest to Committee members regarding developments in corporate, trade, tax and other areas of the law applicable to cross-border practice on projects in the Americas.

To achieve these goals, the Inter-American Committee will engage in the following activities (1) hold meetings of its members; (2) organize substantive discussions of relevant issues at meetings of the International Section ; (3) coordinate with other Committees and other Sections of the New York State Bar Association; (4) contribute content to the publications of the International Section and New York State Bar Association; and (5) create networking opportunities for its members.

Committee Roster

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Committee Roster

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Committee on Public International Law

Professor Christopher J. Borgen, Esq., chair

Mission Statement

New York is a center not only of international commerce, but of international law and diplomacy. In that light, the Committee on Public International Law seeks to foster the following goals:

1. To educate the public and the bar about public international law and its role in international commerce and in world affairs;
2. To disseminate information about recent developments in public international law;
3. To provide a forum for the discussion of important current issues and controversies;
4. To bring together practicing lawyers and public officials engaged in matters of public international law;
5. To promote the rule of law; and
6. To work with other committees of the Section and with other lawyers from throughout the State, the nation and the world to achieve these goals.

Committee Roster

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Committee on Insurance & Reinsurance

Howard A. Fischer, Esq. and Chiahua Pan, Esq.

MissionStatement

The International Section Insurance & Reinsurance Committee was established in early 2007 to provide a New York-based forum for international counsel with in-house or law firm practices concerning insurance, reinsurance, and insurance-related business such as international inward and outward investment by insurance/reinsurance companies, wherever situated. The Committee seeks to provide its members with multiple opportunities through various initiatives to interact with those American and foreign colleagues who share their interests in the international insurance and reinsurance practice areas, and to keep abreast of current critical issues and legal trends in those areas.   The Committee seeks to develop an open, culturally and geographically diverse membership not restricted to NY attorneys but available to all international insurance/reinsurance attorneys wherever they practice.

To achieve those goals, the Committee will hold 3-4 meetings annually with teleconference facilities available to those who cannot attend in person.Ad hoc meetings on particularly important issues and with guest speakers may also be scheduled. Programs or presentations, preferably eligible for CLE credit, will be developed or sponsored, and any opportunity to work with other related Sections or International Section Committees will be encouraged. A news publication dedicated to providing timely global insurance and reinsurance alerts will be developed as a separate publication and/or in conjunction with the Section’s Newsletter. The Committee plans to develop programs for presentation at the Section’s Fall and/or Annual Meetings. Finally, the Committee will strive to regularly elicit members’ opinions and suggestions as to how to most effectively address their areas of interest and to expand their networking opportunities.

Committee Roster

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL ENTERTAINMENT AND SPORTS LAW

Gordon W. Esau, Esq. and Howard Z. Robbins, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

To foster contact and the exchange of information among New York attorneys practicing in the international arena of the sports and entertainment industries.

The Committee on International Entertainment and Sports Law will carry out those goals through organizing educational programs and connecting members of the Committee with each other and through projects that could benefit from their assistance.

Committee Roster

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New York State Bar Association

International Section

Committee on International Practice Management

MISSION STATEMENT

The Committee on International Practice Management will be available to all members of the International Section of the New York State Bar Association who have responsibility for, or an interest in, the management of international legal practices and will serve as a clearing house for, and a forum for the discussion and exchange of information and ideas of and about, best practices, current issues, and all other matters relating to the proper and effective management of international legal practices. 

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL LITIGATION

John N. Fellas, Esq. and Thomas N. Pieper, Esq, chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

Modern means of technology and transportation have led to an unprecedented increase in international commerce.  Consumers routinely order products from abroad over the Internet; companies spread manufacturing, marketing, and distribution over various countries; and financial investors operate on a world-wide scale.  Where there are commercial transactions, there are disputes, and if the transactions are international, so are the disputes.  But while commerce transcends traditional geographic boundaries with increasing ease, the law does not always follow.  National legal schemes may be converging, but they still are autonomous, often diverging or overlapping, and almost always provide for special rules that apply in the international context.  International disputes are thus increasing in number, complexity, and variation, and include international litigations, arbitrations, and regulatory investigations.

While interested in all forms of international disputes, this Committee focuses on International Litigation.  The goals of the International Litigation Committee are to (1)enhance specialized knowledge and skills required to conduct legal proceedings involving multiple jurisdictions; (2) develop among its members an understanding of the various legal norms and international treaties involved; (3) create and maintain a global network of international litigators; and (4) explore the connections and overlaps between international litigation and other legal disciplines, in particular other forms of international dispute resolution (including arbitration, meditation, and regulatory investigation).

To achieve these goals, the International Litigation Committee will engage in the following activities: (1) hold meetings of and for its members; (2) organize substantive discussions of international litigation issues at meetings of the International Section and other events; (3) coordinate with other Committees and Sections of the New York State Bar Association and other suitable organizations; (4) contribute content to the publications of the International Section and New York State Bar Association; and (5) create networking opportunities for its members.

(last revised 1/26/2009)

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Committee on International Privacy Law

Audrey Davidson Cunningham, Esq. and Lisa J. Sotto, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The Mission of the Committee on International Privacy Law is to provide a forum for international privacy law practitioners for the exchange of legal developments, knowledge and experience that will enable those lawyers to practice law more effectively in an ever-changing global environment.

The Committee on International Privacy Law is dedicated to achieving the goals of:

1.   Increased communication, education and sharing of knowledge and experience among privacy lawyers who engage in the practice of international privacy law;

2.   the facilitation of the exchange of information and ideas involving issues of international privacy law; and

3.   the creation and development of activities and continuing legal education opportunities that will enable international privacy lawyers to better represent their clients.

MISSION RELATED ACTIVITES

The Committee on International Privacy Law of the International Section:

1.   Holds events concerning international privacy law for members of the New York State Bar Association;

2.   conducts meetings of the Committee to provide programs and CLE for international privacy lawyers on subjects of international privacy law, including presentations by distinguished privacy professionals;

3.   fosters exchange of information, ideas and international privacy strategies among international privacy lawyers; and

4.   coordinates Committee activities with other groups that share a similar mission, such as the New York Privacy Officers’ Forum and the International Association of Privacy Professionals.

Committee Roster

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

MISSION STATEMENT

  The goals of the Committee are (i) to create a forum for the discussion of hot topics and current developments affecting both U.S.  and foreign real estate; (ii) establish a network of world-wide real estate practitioners; (iii)  develop an exchange among members with  respect to areas of  cross-border real estate transactions, including, structuring , financing, taxation   and legal opinions;  and  (iv) explore the connections and overlaps between   international real estate transactions and related practice areas.

To achieve these goals, the International Real Estate Transactions Committee will engage in the following activities: (i) hold meetings of its members; (ii) publish   articles authored by committee members on topics of interest; (iii) arrange programs including web conferencing   with the participation of Chapter Chairs and members who are overseas; (iv) create networking opportunities for its members; and (v) coordinate   programs of mutual interest with other Committees and Sections of the New York State Bar Association, as well as other bar associations.

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Committee on International Estate and Trust Law

Glenn G. Fox, Esq. and Michael W. Galligan, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The primary focus of the Committee on International Estate and Trust Law of the NYSBA International Section is to bring together estate and trust practitioners from around the world in order to determine the most effective way to plan for clients with assets in multiple jurisdictions, especially in light of the differences in the succession and tax laws in the civil and common law jurisdictions.    Another important goal is to raise awareness among practitioners of the International Section who do not practice trusts and estates law of how international trust and estate issues may impact their areas of practice.

The Committee is currently focusing on areas of New York law that will make New York a jurisdiction that supports estate planning for international families and a forum from which it is easy to administer estates and trusts with international connections.  We want to inform both New York and non-New York lawyers about the ways New York law is conducive to international estate planning and work to reform  New York law with respect to those areas of New York law that could better facilitate international estate and trust administration.  We have and continue to meet out goals by inviting speakers from foreign jurisdictions to address our committee on topics of interest, propose state and federal legislation to make it easier for clients with contacts in other countries to implement more streamlined estate plans, and conduct CLE courses oriented towards increasing knowledge and awareness of international trusts and estates among attorneys and legal professionals in New York and beyond New York.

The Committee played an important role in renewing interest in the ratification by the United States of the 1985 Hague Convention on the Recognition of Trusts and will be looking for new opportunities to promote US ratification after the current election season.  The legislative projects the Committee is working on include a proposed amendment to the New York Surrogate’s Court Procedures Act, currently in draft, that would enable inter-vivos trusts to register as New York trusts.

Committee Roster

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COMMITTEE ON CORPORATE COUNSEL
(Barbara M. Levi and Allison B. Tomlinson)

MISSION STATEMENT

The Corporate Counsel Committee of the International Section of the New York State Bar Association is comprised of attorneys who serve as in-house counsel to corporations and other business entities, as well as attorneys in law firms, government, and academic institutions. The Committee members collaborate on activities that enhance the role of in-house corporate counsel as contributing members and leaders of their communities, the legal profession and the Bar Association, and provide a medium for cooperation, encouragement and assistance in the resolution of problems common to them and the legal profession, to their mutual benefit and the benefit of the membership of the Bar Association, the legal profession at large, the substantive body of law in New York, and the general administration of justice throughout the state.

The Committee sponsors roundtable discussions, continuing legal education and networking events geared toward corporate counsel several times throughout the year.

For further information, please contact Co-chairs, Barbara Levi at barbara.levi@unilever.com or Allison B. Tomlinson at tomlinson@pbworld.com.

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL ANTITRUST AND COMPETITION LAW
(Olivier N. Antoine and Boris M. Kasten)

MISSION STATEMENT

The Committee's activities focus on legal issues related to (i) merger control, (ii) cartel enforcement, (iii) vertical restraints, (iv) single-firm conduct, and (v) antitrust compliance. With a view to those issues, the mission of the International Antitrust and Competition Law Committee is (a) to foster discussion about the nature, objectives and quality of international antitrust law and practice by stimulating debate among its members as well as with other players in the international competition law community, and (b) to provide a forum to grow the professional development of its members.

In order to achieve its aims, the Committee seeks to develop a membership consisting not only of attorneys admitted in the State of New York, but open to all international antitrust practitioners in the private and public field.

In developing its activities, the Committee seeks to interact with regulatory agencies, bar organizations and academic institutions worldwide, as well as with other NYSBA and ILPS committees, sections and chapters. The Committee intends to sponsor roundtable discussions and create networking opportunities geared toward international antitrust counsel as well as representatives of antitrust regulators.

For further information, please contact Co-chairs Olivier N. Antoine (oantoine@crowell.com) or Boris M. Kasten (boris.kasten@hengeler.com).

Committee Roster

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL LAW
(John Hanna, Jr., Andrew D. Otis, and Mark F. Rosenberg)

MISSION STATEMENT

The physical environment transcends national borders.  Environmental law has followed in treaties, customary law and national regulations.  Multinational business and non-governmental organizations must comply with this patchwork of applicable laws. 

The goals of the International Environmental Law Committee are to (1) develop among its members an understanding of the various environmental legal regimes and treaties; (2) promote the rule of law in the development of sustainable national and international policies; (3) create a robust world-wide network of environmental legal practitioners; and (4) explore the connections and overlaps between environmental law and other legal disciplines.

To achieve these goals, the International Environmental Law Committee will engage in the following activities (1) hold meetings of its members; (2) organize substantive discussions of environmental law issues at meetings of the International Section ; (3) coordinate with other Committees and other Sections of the New York State Bar Association; (4) contribute content to the publications of the International Section and New York State Bar Association; and (5) create networking opportunities for its members.

Committee Roster

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S RIGHTS

Shannon P. McNulty, Esq. and Denise Scotto, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The International Women’s Rights Committee advances the progress of the world’s women by (1) raising awareness about current legal barriers which significantly impede women’s development; (2) supporting the reform of laws that hinder women’s advancement; and (3) implementing existing laws to promote and protect the rights of women globally. 

The IWRC shall carry out these goals through (1) organizing educational programs; (2) advocating for certain actions to support women’s rights; (3) and connecting members of the IWRC and the greater Association with international women’s rights projects that could benefit from their assistance.

Committee Roster

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Committee on International Creditor's Rights

David R. Franklin, Esq., chair

MISSION STATEMENT

International trade brings great opportunity for business profit, but also exposes the supplier of goods and services to financial risk and unpaid trade debt.

The rights of creditors in the international forum relies heavily on international treaties, plus the ‘local’ debtor/creditor laws of the appropriate jurisdiction.   Lawyers advising multinational businesses engaged in international trade should be familiar with the legal obstacles and challenges to the rights of creditors in the international arena.

The goals of the International Creditor’s Rights Committee are to:

1. develop among the members an understanding of various legal doctrines and treaties dealing with international creditor’s rights;

2. promote the rule of law in the development of sustainable national and international policies;

3. to create an active world-wide network of creditor’s rights legal practitioners; and

4. study the connections and overlaps between creditor’s rights law and other legal disciplines.

To achieve these goals the International Creditor’s Rights Committee will engage in the following activities:

1. hold meetings of its members;

2. organize substantive discussions of creditor’s rights law issues at meetings of the International Law Section;

3. coordinate with other Committees and other Sections of the New York State Bar Association;

4. contribute content to the publications of the International Law Section and New York State Bar Association; and

5. create networking opportunities for its members.

6. lobby where appropriate to introduce new legislation designed to enhance collection of international debts.

Committee Roster

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FOREIGN LAWYERS COMMITTEE

(Albert Garrofe and Maria Tufvesson Shuk)

MISSION STATEMENT

The Foreign Lawyers Committee (FLC) was revived in 2008 to promote the interests of foreign attorneys (including those with a degree also from an American law school and those admitted also to the New York Bar) in the field of private international law.  To achieve its goal, FLC will provide different types of gatherings covering legal topics of interests for international lawyers and networking opportunities for such lawyers and law students.  These networking opportunities will include larger gatherings (e.g., luncheon presentations, cocktail hours), smaller gatherings, and one-on-one meetings, as well as contact via email.  The FLC networking opportunities are designed to provide a professional and welcoming environment for foreign lawyers of all levels and backgrounds, to meet and learn from each other as well as to exchange legal thoughts and engage in hearty discussions on subjects of interest to us.  In addition, FLC will co-host substantive programs with other International Section committees, which programs are of interest to FLC members.

Committee Roster

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Welcome to the International Section Committee on Asia and the Pacific Region

Lawrence A. Darby, III, Chair

Mission Statement

The Asia-Pacific region has grown very rapidly in economic and political importance in recent years and this growth has been accompanied by a corresponding increase in the importance of law and legal institutions as well.   With this in mind, the Mission of the Asia-Pacific Law Committee is to improve the understanding of the role of law in promoting the interests of clients doing business and the legal environment in the Asia-Pacific region and to foster interchange of ideas and personal relations between lawyers practicing in New York and their counterparts practicing in Asia-Pacific jurisdictions. 

The Committee’s main focus is legal education considered in the broad sense.   Members of the Committee are encouraged to participate in Section meetings that are held in Asia such as the past meetings in Hong Kong and Shanghai and the Fall 2009 and 2010 meetings in Singapore and Australia, including organizing panels on current legal topics affecting the region and the development of law in Asia.  To better appreciate the historical development and function of law in Asian societies and the place of law in Asian cultures, the Committee encourages members to meet with each other when traveling on business and on vacation.  Although the wide geographic disparity of Committee memberships makes it inconvenient to hold meetings other than at annual events of the Section, members are encouraged to communicate with each other concerning legal developments of interest through Section e-mail lists and social networking sites such as LinkedIn.

Committee Roster

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Welcome to the International Section Committee on Europe

Upcoming Events

Committee on International Art Law, Art Funds and Art Finance

Enrique Liberman, Esq., Chair

Welcome to the International Section Committee on International Microfinance and Financial Inclusion

Azish Filabi, Esq. and Julee Milham, Esq., Co-Chairs

Microfinance and Inclusive Finance are characterized by the provision of financial services (such as savings, loans, insurance and remittances) to people who have been left out of the traditional banking systems, often low-income individuals who lack collateral and credit history.  Microfinance is widely viewed as a sustainable solution to alleviating poverty.

Mission Statement

The Committee on International Microfinance and Financial Inclusion supports the expansion of microfinance and other methods of financial inclusion via both commercial and non-profit sectors.  As a cross-cutting discipline, microfinance and legal issues relating to financial inclusion are areas that impact various work streams, including, for example, banking and e-banking, international investment, insurance, secured transactions, security interests, alternative dispute resolution, poverty eradication, and women's rights.

Just as the fields of microfinance and financial inclusion act as a "natural glue" among many disciplines, they also weave together the corresponding interests of various NYSBA committees and chapters.  Both funding countries and recipient countries have high stake interests in the advancement of this sector, and the Committee provides a natural environment for such parties to exchange views and work together.

Proposed activities the Committee explores include those to:

1.  Provide input in to the work of standard-setting bodies (e.g., BASEL, the World Bank, the UN) and promote the development of best practices.

2. Establish relationships and mutual projects with NYSBA International Section Chapters, particularly in  countries where microfinance plays a more prominent role in poverty alleviation agendas

3.  Monitor legislation, both in the US and abroad, through coordination with NYSBA International Section Chapters for monitoring of foreign government legislation

4.  Establish relationships with and provide relevant information to donors, funders, lenders, and other investors in microfinance

5.  Create written content and educational programs internally and externally (e.g., provide content to NYSBA for publications or CLEs, raise the profile of NYSBA among external organizations, publications, and other venues)

6.  Provide opportunities for networking with other NYSBA committees and sections, substantive and geographical, inside NYSBA and with external bars internationally and domestically

7.  Assist law schools with educational curriculum, clinics and other forums to promote research and understanding of topics in financial inclusion

8.  Assist and encourage governments in facilitating the sector by providing research, support statements, and similar assistance

9.  Facilitate the education of microfinance institutions in the field on legal issues

10.  Serve as a resource of information and people to other committees and sections within NYSBA

11.  Provide a networking and discussion forum for microfinance-related NYSBA attorneys, who currently have no trade organization

12.  Facilitate discussion of microfinance and financial inclusion among various

       a.  legal systems (e.g. civil vs. common law)

       b.  banking systems (e.g. Islamic/participatory, and mobile)

       c.  currency systems (e.g, actual, virtual, and complementary), and

       d.  government systems (e.g., democratic, theocratic, socialist), and

       e.  economic systems (e.g., capitalist, communist, protectionist)

Int'l Section Note to UNCITRAL re: Microfinance 

For more information about this Committee, please contact Azish Filabi at Azish.Filabi@ny.frb.org or Julee Milham at julee@milhamLaw.com.

Committee Roster 

AFRICA COMMITTEE

Janiece Brown Spitzmueller, Esq. and Hon. George Bundy Smith  - Co-Chairs

Committee on International Contract and Commercial Law

International Contract and Commercial Law Committee New York Contracts Checklist (PDF) - this resource is for Section members only and requires login to access

Committee Roster

COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL TRADE

Updated information coming soon! 

Welcome to the International Section Committee on Central & Eastern Europe

Serhiy Hoshovsky, Esq. and Daniel Rothstein, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The CEE Committee’s geographical focus is Russia and the other formerly socialist countries of Europe.  The Committee’s activities focus on legal issues related to (a) the formerly socialist countries’ transition to private enterprise and a democratic form of government, (b) investment into and from those countries, and (c) their integration into international commercial and legal institutions and arrangements.  In developing its activities, the Committee seeks to cooperate with governments and bar organizations in the CEE region, and other NYSBA and ILPS committees, sections, and chapters.

Committee Roster

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Welcome to the International Section Committee on Immigration and Nationality

COMMITTEE ON IMMIGRATION & NATIONALITY

Jan H. Brown, Esq.  and Matthew Stuart Dunn, Esq. chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

  The mission of the Immigration & Nationality Committee is to enhance the quality of immigration and nationality law and practice, and to grow the professional development of our members.  Through our seminars we seek to support members to competently pursue their law practice and to promote the delivery of competent ethical and lawful immigration services.  Also, through strategic partnerships with other lawyer committees, we encourage support for pro bono services and programs.  We also meet with representatives from government agencies so that our lawyers will have an increased understanding of the practical aspects of practicing immigration law.  The Committee also seeks to meet with non-governmental organizations to ensure that the administration of immigration policy serves the national interest and is administered justly. We also engage in outreach to the immigrant community on issues of relevance to them.

Committee Roster

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Welcome to the International Section Committee on Int'l Banking, Sec. & Fin. Transactions

Joyce M. Hansen, Esq.  and Eberhard H. Rohm, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

Scope and Objective

The Committee is a forum where issues on banking law, securities regulations and financial transactions relevant to international law and practice are identified, addressed and acted upon. The core objective of the Committee is the continuous promotion of the work of the International Section of the NYSBA across the world.

General Mission

The Committee will

• exchange information related to legal issues in international banking law, securities regulations and financial transactions across the world;
• identify and interpret banking law, securities regulations and financial transactions issues relating to the practice of law in New York and across borders and prepare appropriate responses to New York or federal legislative initiatives;
• assist and actively participate in the planning and executing of programs for the fall meetings of the International Section of the NYSBA
• assist the NYSBA Annual Meeting and House of Delegates Meeting in the area of international banking law, securities regulations and financial transactions by presenting action plans for approval, by executing these programs and regularly reporting;
• promote membership in the International Section of the NYSBA and in the Committee;
• assist, advise and monitor work of regulatory agencies, industry groups and stakeholders related to decision making regarding international banking law, securities regulations and financial transactions,
• identify, interpret and monitor relevant developments relating to the area of international banking law, securities regulations and financial transactions and prepare appropriate responses.

Organizational Considerations

The Committee will report regularly to the Executive Committee of the International Section of the NYSBA and keep the members of the Committeeinvolved in Committee discussions.

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Welcome to the International Section Committee on Int'l Distribution, Sales & Marketing

Andre R. Jaglom, Esq., chair

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the International Distribution, Sales and Marketing Committee of the International Section is to share information concerning the varying laws around the world affecting the international distribution of goods and services and to recommend policy positions on the law of the State of New York and other jurisdictions affecting international distribution.

Goods and services can be distributed in a variety of ways, from direct distribution to the use of intermediaries such as commercial agents, independent distributors, franchisees, licensees and private label arrangements, among others. Different jurisdictions treat these methods very differently, from imposing restrictions on the ability to terminate, to varying treatment under antitrust and competition laws, to regulation of intellectual property licenses and controls over foreign ownership.

The Committee will seek to educate its members, members of the Section and of the Association, and the Bar generally, through CLE programs, articles and other means, with regard to the nature of these laws and legal developments in the field, and where appropriate, recommend positions on proposed legislation and similar matters.

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Committee on Int'l Insolvencies and Reorganizations

Committee Roster

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Committee on Int'l Intellectual Property Protection

Eric Stenshoel, Esq. and L. Donald Prutzman, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the Intellectual Property Committee of the International Section is (1) to disseminate information concerning law and policy affecting intellectual property and related issues throughout the world, to recommend policy positions concerning United States intellectual property law as it relates to international business, the intellectual property laws of other countries and multi-country jurisdictions, and multi-lateral and bi-lateral treaties and trade agreements affecting intellectual property, and (2) to educate members of the Committee and the Section, the Association and the legal profession generally concerning intellectual property matters.

Virtually all businesses today use, and need legal advice concerning, one or more forms of intellectual property, including trademarks, copyrights, patents, Internet domain names, protected geographical designations, trade secrets and other varieties.  Members of the Bar need to advise clients that operate internationally concerning how to protect, acquire and exploit their own intellectual property and how to avoid infringing the intellectual property rights of others in the U.S. and parts of the world where they operate.  This requires knowledge concerning not only U.S. law, but the laws of other jurisdictions and a number of international agreements relating to intellectual property as well.

The Committee seeks to perform its education function through meetings, seminars, CLE programs, publication of articles and comments on proposed legislation and treaties affecting international intellectual property.  In or to strengthen these activities and to avoid duplication of effort, the Committee will seek to coordinate its activities where appropriate with the International Committee of the Intellectual Property Section of the New York State Bar Association.

Committee Roster

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Committee on International Arbitration & ADR

Guillermo Aguilar-Alvarez, Esq. and Nancy M. Theveni, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The Committee on International Arbitration and Alternative Dispute Resolution (“ADR”) seeks to (1) promote the study and use of arbitration and other methods of ADR; (2) provide a forum for the discussion of global developments in these areas; and (3) increase communication, education and sharing of knowledge and experience among practitioners in the field.

The Committee shall carry out these goals by (a) organizing educational programs in the form of conferences, luncheons, or other formats; (b) working with local and international arbitration and ADR organizations to sponsor events and programs; (c)   advocating for local or international action aimed at fostering the use of arbitration and ADR for resolving international business disputes; and (d) becoming a resource for members of the Committee and the greater Association with questions about international arbitration and ADR.

Committee Roster

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Committee on International Employment Law

Elizabeth I. Hook, Esq. and Aaron J. Schindel, Esq, chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

This committee is open to all lawyers interested in international employment law (including those who represent labor and management, as well as academicians and neutrals).  The committee’s mission is to provide a resource for education regarding, and development of, the laws relating to the employees of multinational enterprises, including: worker rights; employer rights and liabilities; employment issues arising in corporate mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures and other corporate transactions; rights and liabilities of organized labor; treaty obligations and enforcement,  and other legal issues regarding the regulation of the employment of workers by multinational enterprises.

In addition, the committee serves as a resource for labor and employment lawyers from countries throughout the world to meet colleagues and develop professional networks and resources. 

The committee generally presents at least one cle program annually, at the Section’s seasonal meeting.  Papers presented in the cle program are available to members of the Section and other participant’s at the seasonal meeting, and have been featured in the International Law Practicum and other publications.

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS

Santiago Corcuera, Esq. and Cynthia Lynn Ebbs, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The Human Rights Committee of the NYSBA International Section recognizes that members of the bar have a unique role in advocating on behalf of individual rights and promoting free and just societies throughout the world.  It similarly recognizes that human rights are best protected by a strong rule of law in the context of democratic governance. 

Accordingly, the Committee seeks to promote and protect human rights, as set forth in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, by (1) raising awareness about violations of human rights; (2) promoting the establishment of democratic governance and a strong rule of law; and (3) advocating for both the enactment and enforcement of laws in ways that protect human rights.  As part of the International Section, the Committee will focus specifically on the promotion of human rights in the international context. 

The Committee shall carry out its goals through (1) organizing educational programs; (2) advocating that governments and nongovernmental organizations take certain actions to promote and protect human rights; (3) connecting NYSBA members with projects that promote human rights, democracy, and the rule of law; and (4) other actions the Committee may deem beneficial to the promotion of human rights.

Committee Roster

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL INVESTMENTS

Lawrence E. Shoenthal, Esq, chair

MISSIONSTATEMENT

The International Investments Committee is charged with issues that arise from clients making cross-border investments. The Committee is concerned with incentives and roadblocks to both inbound and outbound investments made by persons from outside the jurisdiction where the investment is made. The Committee also serves as a bridge between itself and other committees and organizations whose mission intercepts with the concerns of the Committee.

Committee Roster

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL INVESTMENTS

Lawrence E. Shoenthal, Esq, chair

MISSIONSTATEMENT

The International Investments Committee is charged with issues that arise from clients making cross-border investments. The Committee is concerned with incentives and roadblocks to both inbound and outbound investments made by persons from outside the jurisdiction where the investment is made. The Committee also serves as a bridge between itself and other committees and organizations whose mission intercepts with the concerns of the Committee.

Committee Roster

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL TRANSPORTATION

William Hull Hagendorn, Esq. and Neil A. Quartaro, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The International Transportation Committee will be a forum for the interchange of information among attorneys advising or representing clients involved in international transportation.  Member attorneys will include house counsel as well as independent and firm attorneys, in the United States and abroad.  Clients will include carriers and their suppliers, shippers of goods, passengers, insurers and their respective agencies. International Transportation includes transportation by air, sea and land which is international in whole or in part.

Subject matters of the information to be exchanged will include:

Existing law, recent and proposed legislation and regulation,

Transactions and litigation in New York and elsewhere,

Referrals of attorneys in other jurisdictions.

Depending on the interests, need and abilities of the Committee members, information can be sought and exchanged:

Via e-mail inquiry, responses and commentary, using a list of members maintained and serviced by the Association,

At periodic meetings of members, with or without presentations by members or invited experts or public officials,

By preparing and presenting a consensus opinion or recommendation on proposed legislation or regulation or pending litigation,

By publication of a member’s article in the Section’s Practicum or International Law Journal,

By preparing and presenting a segment of the Section’s program at the Association’s spring meeting or the Section’s fall meeting abroad, or participating as a panelist in such a program.

We hope that the Committee will attract a wide variety of attorneys with transportation as their common interest, who are not brought together in legal specialty or industry groups.

Committee Roster

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COMMITTEE ON PUBLICATIONS-EDITORIAL BOARD

Thomas Backen, Esq., Professor Christopher J. Borgen, Esq., David W. Detjen, Esq., and Lester Nelson, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the Publications Committee of the International Section of the NY State Bar Association is to develop and produce the publications produced by the Section, namely the New York International Law Review, the Practicum and the Section newsletter with the goal of disseminating to members of the Section, to other members of the Association and to lawyers and law students  information about the activities of the Section and advice to lawyers engaged in international or cross-border practices, in publications, articles and in other ways on the subject of international and cross-border matters

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COMMITTEE ON THE UNITED NATIONS AND OTHER INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

Jeffrey C. Chancas, Esq. and Edward C. Mattes, Jr., Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The Committee on the United Nations and Other International Organizations of the NYSBA International Section serves as a liaison between the New York State Bar Association and the United Nations and other international organizations.  A primary goal is to raise awareness among practitioners of the policies, the prevalent ideas and the work done at the United Nations through lectures by prominent individuals who are currently or were formerly affiliated with the United Nations.

Among those who have lectured to members of the state bar and other invited guests include: the UN’s Under Secretary General for Legal Affairs and Legal Counsel, executive directors of various offices and programs at the UN and presidents and dignitaries of member states of the UN.

The Committee anticipates presenting similar prominent individuals to address current topics next year.  The upcoming change in administration due to the United States presidential election should present an opportunity to address possible changing perspectives within member states of the United Nations.

In May 2008, the Committee held a luncheon at the UN attended by members of the section and guests, including students from the Princeton University International Relations Counsel, one of whose members is Carolyn Edelstein, the granddaughter of section founder, Lauren D. Rachlin.  The luncheon was organized and hosted by the Committee’s co-chairs, Edward C. Mattes, Jr., and Jeffrey C. Chancas, following a suggestion for such a luncheon by Mr. Rachlin.  The luncheon speaker was Mr. Amir Dossal, Executive Director of the United Nations Office for Partnerships.  Mr. Dossal’s topic was: “How Ted Turner’s Philanthropy Gave Rise to a New Era in United Nations Partnerships.”  The luncheon afforded the Princeton students the opportunity for an up close and personal exchange with a senior member of the UN Secretariat and with the section members and afforded all in attendance the opportunity to learn about a fascinating aspect of the UN’s work.  After the luncheon, the students and some of the attorneys went on a personal tour of the UN conducted by a member of Mr. Dossal’s staff.

This type of a luncheon could be repeated and would serve to apprise practitioners and students of various aspects of the UN’s work and to introduce students, whether undergraduate, graduate or law students, to the section.  Such lectures could furnish a valuable opportunity to increase the section’s future membership.

Committee Roster

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INTER-AMERICAN COMMITTEE

Carlos E. Alfaro, Esq. and Alyssa A. Grikscheit, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The goals of the Inter-American Committee are (1) develop among its members an understanding of issues arising in various legal regimes in the Americas; (2) create a robust network of legal practitioners in the Americas; and (3) exchange updates on issues of interest to Committee members regarding developments in corporate, trade, tax and other areas of the law applicable to cross-border practice on projects in the Americas.

To achieve these goals, the Inter-American Committee will engage in the following activities (1) hold meetings of its members; (2) organize substantive discussions of relevant issues at meetings of the International Section ; (3) coordinate with other Committees and other Sections of the New York State Bar Association; (4) contribute content to the publications of the International Section and New York State Bar Association; and (5) create networking opportunities for its members.

Committee Roster

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Committee Roster

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Committee on Public International Law

Professor Christopher J. Borgen, Esq., chair

Mission Statement

New York is a center not only of international commerce, but of international law and diplomacy. In that light, the Committee on Public International Law seeks to foster the following goals:

1. To educate the public and the bar about public international law and its role in international commerce and in world affairs;
2. To disseminate information about recent developments in public international law;
3. To provide a forum for the discussion of important current issues and controversies;
4. To bring together practicing lawyers and public officials engaged in matters of public international law;
5. To promote the rule of law; and
6. To work with other committees of the Section and with other lawyers from throughout the State, the nation and the world to achieve these goals.

Committee Roster

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Committee on Insurance & Reinsurance

Howard A. Fischer, Esq. and Chiahua Pan, Esq.

MissionStatement

The International Section Insurance & Reinsurance Committee was established in early 2007 to provide a New York-based forum for international counsel with in-house or law firm practices concerning insurance, reinsurance, and insurance-related business such as international inward and outward investment by insurance/reinsurance companies, wherever situated. The Committee seeks to provide its members with multiple opportunities through various initiatives to interact with those American and foreign colleagues who share their interests in the international insurance and reinsurance practice areas, and to keep abreast of current critical issues and legal trends in those areas.   The Committee seeks to develop an open, culturally and geographically diverse membership not restricted to NY attorneys but available to all international insurance/reinsurance attorneys wherever they practice.

To achieve those goals, the Committee will hold 3-4 meetings annually with teleconference facilities available to those who cannot attend in person.Ad hoc meetings on particularly important issues and with guest speakers may also be scheduled. Programs or presentations, preferably eligible for CLE credit, will be developed or sponsored, and any opportunity to work with other related Sections or International Section Committees will be encouraged. A news publication dedicated to providing timely global insurance and reinsurance alerts will be developed as a separate publication and/or in conjunction with the Section’s Newsletter. The Committee plans to develop programs for presentation at the Section’s Fall and/or Annual Meetings. Finally, the Committee will strive to regularly elicit members’ opinions and suggestions as to how to most effectively address their areas of interest and to expand their networking opportunities.

Committee Roster

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL ENTERTAINMENT AND SPORTS LAW

Gordon W. Esau, Esq. and Howard Z. Robbins, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

To foster contact and the exchange of information among New York attorneys practicing in the international arena of the sports and entertainment industries.

The Committee on International Entertainment and Sports Law will carry out those goals through organizing educational programs and connecting members of the Committee with each other and through projects that could benefit from their assistance.

Committee Roster

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New York State Bar Association

International Section

Committee on International Practice Management

MISSION STATEMENT

The Committee on International Practice Management will be available to all members of the International Section of the New York State Bar Association who have responsibility for, or an interest in, the management of international legal practices and will serve as a clearing house for, and a forum for the discussion and exchange of information and ideas of and about, best practices, current issues, and all other matters relating to the proper and effective management of international legal practices. 

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL LITIGATION

John N. Fellas, Esq. and Thomas N. Pieper, Esq, chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

Modern means of technology and transportation have led to an unprecedented increase in international commerce.  Consumers routinely order products from abroad over the Internet; companies spread manufacturing, marketing, and distribution over various countries; and financial investors operate on a world-wide scale.  Where there are commercial transactions, there are disputes, and if the transactions are international, so are the disputes.  But while commerce transcends traditional geographic boundaries with increasing ease, the law does not always follow.  National legal schemes may be converging, but they still are autonomous, often diverging or overlapping, and almost always provide for special rules that apply in the international context.  International disputes are thus increasing in number, complexity, and variation, and include international litigations, arbitrations, and regulatory investigations.

While interested in all forms of international disputes, this Committee focuses on International Litigation.  The goals of the International Litigation Committee are to (1)enhance specialized knowledge and skills required to conduct legal proceedings involving multiple jurisdictions; (2) develop among its members an understanding of the various legal norms and international treaties involved; (3) create and maintain a global network of international litigators; and (4) explore the connections and overlaps between international litigation and other legal disciplines, in particular other forms of international dispute resolution (including arbitration, meditation, and regulatory investigation).

To achieve these goals, the International Litigation Committee will engage in the following activities: (1) hold meetings of and for its members; (2) organize substantive discussions of international litigation issues at meetings of the International Section and other events; (3) coordinate with other Committees and Sections of the New York State Bar Association and other suitable organizations; (4) contribute content to the publications of the International Section and New York State Bar Association; and (5) create networking opportunities for its members.

(last revised 1/26/2009)

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Committee on International Privacy Law

Audrey Davidson Cunningham, Esq. and Lisa J. Sotto, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The Mission of the Committee on International Privacy Law is to provide a forum for international privacy law practitioners for the exchange of legal developments, knowledge and experience that will enable those lawyers to practice law more effectively in an ever-changing global environment.

The Committee on International Privacy Law is dedicated to achieving the goals of:

1.   Increased communication, education and sharing of knowledge and experience among privacy lawyers who engage in the practice of international privacy law;

2.   the facilitation of the exchange of information and ideas involving issues of international privacy law; and

3.   the creation and development of activities and continuing legal education opportunities that will enable international privacy lawyers to better represent their clients.

MISSION RELATED ACTIVITES

The Committee on International Privacy Law of the International Section:

1.   Holds events concerning international privacy law for members of the New York State Bar Association;

2.   conducts meetings of the Committee to provide programs and CLE for international privacy lawyers on subjects of international privacy law, including presentations by distinguished privacy professionals;

3.   fosters exchange of information, ideas and international privacy strategies among international privacy lawyers; and

4.   coordinates Committee activities with other groups that share a similar mission, such as the New York Privacy Officers’ Forum and the International Association of Privacy Professionals.

Committee Roster

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

MISSION STATEMENT

  The goals of the Committee are (i) to create a forum for the discussion of hot topics and current developments affecting both U.S.  and foreign real estate; (ii) establish a network of world-wide real estate practitioners; (iii)  develop an exchange among members with  respect to areas of  cross-border real estate transactions, including, structuring , financing, taxation   and legal opinions;  and  (iv) explore the connections and overlaps between   international real estate transactions and related practice areas.

To achieve these goals, the International Real Estate Transactions Committee will engage in the following activities: (i) hold meetings of its members; (ii) publish   articles authored by committee members on topics of interest; (iii) arrange programs including web conferencing   with the participation of Chapter Chairs and members who are overseas; (iv) create networking opportunities for its members; and (v) coordinate   programs of mutual interest with other Committees and Sections of the New York State Bar Association, as well as other bar associations.

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Committee on International Estate and Trust Law

Glenn G. Fox, Esq. and Michael W. Galligan, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The primary focus of the Committee on International Estate and Trust Law of the NYSBA International Section is to bring together estate and trust practitioners from around the world in order to determine the most effective way to plan for clients with assets in multiple jurisdictions, especially in light of the differences in the succession and tax laws in the civil and common law jurisdictions.    Another important goal is to raise awareness among practitioners of the International Section who do not practice trusts and estates law of how international trust and estate issues may impact their areas of practice.

The Committee is currently focusing on areas of New York law that will make New York a jurisdiction that supports estate planning for international families and a forum from which it is easy to administer estates and trusts with international connections.  We want to inform both New York and non-New York lawyers about the ways New York law is conducive to international estate planning and work to reform  New York law with respect to those areas of New York law that could better facilitate international estate and trust administration.  We have and continue to meet out goals by inviting speakers from foreign jurisdictions to address our committee on topics of interest, propose state and federal legislation to make it easier for clients with contacts in other countries to implement more streamlined estate plans, and conduct CLE courses oriented towards increasing knowledge and awareness of international trusts and estates among attorneys and legal professionals in New York and beyond New York.

The Committee played an important role in renewing interest in the ratification by the United States of the 1985 Hague Convention on the Recognition of Trusts and will be looking for new opportunities to promote US ratification after the current election season.  The legislative projects the Committee is working on include a proposed amendment to the New York Surrogate’s Court Procedures Act, currently in draft, that would enable inter-vivos trusts to register as New York trusts.

Committee Roster

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COMMITTEE ON CORPORATE COUNSEL
(Barbara M. Levi and Allison B. Tomlinson)

MISSION STATEMENT

The Corporate Counsel Committee of the International Section of the New York State Bar Association is comprised of attorneys who serve as in-house counsel to corporations and other business entities, as well as attorneys in law firms, government, and academic institutions. The Committee members collaborate on activities that enhance the role of in-house corporate counsel as contributing members and leaders of their communities, the legal profession and the Bar Association, and provide a medium for cooperation, encouragement and assistance in the resolution of problems common to them and the legal profession, to their mutual benefit and the benefit of the membership of the Bar Association, the legal profession at large, the substantive body of law in New York, and the general administration of justice throughout the state.

The Committee sponsors roundtable discussions, continuing legal education and networking events geared toward corporate counsel several times throughout the year.

For further information, please contact Co-chairs, Barbara Levi at barbara.levi@unilever.com or Allison B. Tomlinson at tomlinson@pbworld.com.

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL ANTITRUST AND COMPETITION LAW
(Olivier N. Antoine and Boris M. Kasten)

MISSION STATEMENT

The Committee's activities focus on legal issues related to (i) merger control, (ii) cartel enforcement, (iii) vertical restraints, (iv) single-firm conduct, and (v) antitrust compliance. With a view to those issues, the mission of the International Antitrust and Competition Law Committee is (a) to foster discussion about the nature, objectives and quality of international antitrust law and practice by stimulating debate among its members as well as with other players in the international competition law community, and (b) to provide a forum to grow the professional development of its members.

In order to achieve its aims, the Committee seeks to develop a membership consisting not only of attorneys admitted in the State of New York, but open to all international antitrust practitioners in the private and public field.

In developing its activities, the Committee seeks to interact with regulatory agencies, bar organizations and academic institutions worldwide, as well as with other NYSBA and ILPS committees, sections and chapters. The Committee intends to sponsor roundtable discussions and create networking opportunities geared toward international antitrust counsel as well as representatives of antitrust regulators.

For further information, please contact Co-chairs Olivier N. Antoine (oantoine@crowell.com) or Boris M. Kasten (boris.kasten@hengeler.com).

Committee Roster

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL LAW
(John Hanna, Jr., Andrew D. Otis, and Mark F. Rosenberg)

MISSION STATEMENT

The physical environment transcends national borders.  Environmental law has followed in treaties, customary law and national regulations.  Multinational business and non-governmental organizations must comply with this patchwork of applicable laws. 

The goals of the International Environmental Law Committee are to (1) develop among its members an understanding of the various environmental legal regimes and treaties; (2) promote the rule of law in the development of sustainable national and international policies; (3) create a robust world-wide network of environmental legal practitioners; and (4) explore the connections and overlaps between environmental law and other legal disciplines.

To achieve these goals, the International Environmental Law Committee will engage in the following activities (1) hold meetings of its members; (2) organize substantive discussions of environmental law issues at meetings of the International Section ; (3) coordinate with other Committees and other Sections of the New York State Bar Association; (4) contribute content to the publications of the International Section and New York State Bar Association; and (5) create networking opportunities for its members.

Committee Roster

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COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S RIGHTS

Shannon P. McNulty, Esq. and Denise Scotto, Esq., chairs

MISSION STATEMENT

The International Women’s Rights Committee advances the progress of the world’s women by (1) raising awareness about current legal barriers which significantly impede women’s development; (2) supporting the reform of laws that hinder women’s advancement; and (3) implementing existing laws to promote and protect the rights of women globally. 

The IWRC shall carry out these goals through (1) organizing educational programs; (2) advocating for certain actions to support women’s rights; (3) and connecting members of the IWRC and the greater Association with international women’s rights projects that could benefit from their assistance.

Committee Roster

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Committee on International Creditor's Rights

David R. Franklin, Esq., chair

MISSION STATEMENT

International trade brings great opportunity for business profit, but also exposes the supplier of goods and services to financial risk and unpaid trade debt.

The rights of creditors in the international forum relies heavily on international treaties, plus the ‘local’ debtor/creditor laws of the appropriate jurisdiction.   Lawyers advising multinational businesses engaged in international trade should be familiar with the legal obstacles and challenges to the rights of creditors in the international arena.

The goals of the International Creditor’s Rights Committee are to:

1. develop among the members an understanding of various legal doctrines and treaties dealing with international creditor’s rights;

2. promote the rule of law in the development of sustainable national and international policies;

3. to create an active world-wide network of creditor’s rights legal practitioners; and

4. study the connections and overlaps between creditor’s rights law and other legal disciplines.

To achieve these goals the International Creditor’s Rights Committee will engage in the following activities:

1. hold meetings of its members;

2. organize substantive discussions of creditor’s rights law issues at meetings of the International Law Section;

3. coordinate with other Committees and other Sections of the New York State Bar Association;

4. contribute content to the publications of the International Law Section and New York State Bar Association; and

5. create networking opportunities for its members.

6. lobby where appropriate to introduce new legislation designed to enhance collection of international debts.

Committee Roster

Upcoming Events

FOREIGN LAWYERS COMMITTEE

(Albert Garrofe and Maria Tufvesson Shuk)

MISSION STATEMENT

The Foreign Lawyers Committee (FLC) was revived in 2008 to promote the interests of foreign attorneys (including those with a degree also from an American law school and those admitted also to the New York Bar) in the field of private international law.  To achieve its goal, FLC will provide different types of gatherings covering legal topics of interests for international lawyers and networking opportunities for such lawyers and law students.  These networking opportunities will include larger gatherings (e.g., luncheon presentations, cocktail hours), smaller gatherings, and one-on-one meetings, as well as contact via email.  The FLC networking opportunities are designed to provide a professional and welcoming environment for foreign lawyers of all levels and backgrounds, to meet and learn from each other as well as to exchange legal thoughts and engage in hearty discussions on subjects of interest to us.  In addition, FLC will co-host substantive programs with other International Section committees, which programs are of interest to FLC members.

Committee Roster

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Welcome to the International Section Committee on Asia and the Pacific Region

Lawrence A. Darby, III, Chair

Mission Statement

The Asia-Pacific region has grown very rapidly in economic and political importance in recent years and this growth has been accompanied by a corresponding increase in the importance of law and legal institutions as well.   With this in mind, the Mission of the Asia-Pacific Law Committee is to improve the understanding of the role of law in promoting the interests of clients doing business and the legal environment in the Asia-Pacific region and to foster interchange of ideas and personal relations between lawyers practicing in New York and their counterparts practicing in Asia-Pacific jurisdictions. 

The Committee’s main focus is legal education considered in the broad sense.   Members of the Committee are encouraged to participate in Section meetings that are held in Asia such as the past meetings in Hong Kong and Shanghai and the Fall 2009 and 2010 meetings in Singapore and Australia, including organizing panels on current legal topics affecting the region and the development of law in Asia.  To better appreciate the historical development and function of law in Asian societies and the place of law in Asian cultures, the Committee encourages members to meet with each other when traveling on business and on vacation.  Although the wide geographic disparity of Committee memberships makes it inconvenient to hold meetings other than at annual events of the Section, members are encouraged to communicate with each other concerning legal developments of interest through Section e-mail lists and social networking sites such as LinkedIn.

Committee Roster

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Welcome to the International Section Committee on Europe

Upcoming Events

Committee on International Art Law, Art Funds and Art Finance

Enrique Liberman, Esq., Chair

Welcome to the International Section Committee on International Microfinance and Financial Inclusion

Azish Filabi, Esq. and Julee Milham, Esq., Co-Chairs

Microfinance and Inclusive Finance are characterized by the provision of financial services (such as savings, loans, insurance and remittances) to people who have been left out of the traditional banking systems, often low-income individuals who lack collateral and credit history.  Microfinance is widely viewed as a sustainable solution to alleviating poverty.

Mission Statement

The Committee on International Microfinance and Financial Inclusion supports the expansion of microfinance and other methods of financial inclusion via both commercial and non-profit sectors.  As a cross-cutting discipline, microfinance and legal issues relating to financial inclusion are areas that impact various work streams, including, for example, banking and e-banking, international investment, insurance, secured transactions, security interests, alternative dispute resolution, poverty eradication, and women's rights.

Just as the fields of microfinance and financial inclusion act as a "natural glue" among many disciplines, they also weave together the corresponding interests of various NYSBA committees and chapters.  Both funding countries and recipient countries have high stake interests in the advancement of this sector, and the Committee provides a natural environment for such parties to exchange views and work together.

Proposed activities the Committee explores include those to:

1.  Provide input in to the work of standard-setting bodies (e.g., BASEL, the World Bank, the UN) and promote the development of best practices.

2. Establish relationships and mutual projects with NYSBA International Section Chapters, particularly in  countries where microfinance plays a more prominent role in poverty alleviation agendas

3.  Monitor legislation, both in the US and abroad, through coordination with NYSBA International Section Chapters for monitoring of foreign government legislation

4.  Establish relationships with and provide relevant information to donors, funders, lenders, and other investors in microfinance

5.  Create written content and educational programs internally and externally (e.g., provide content to NYSBA for publications or CLEs, raise the profile of NYSBA among external organizations, publications, and other venues)

6.  Provide opportunities for networking with other NYSBA committees and sections, substantive and geographical, inside NYSBA and with external bars internationally and domestically

7.  Assist law schools with educational curriculum, clinics and other forums to promote research and understanding of topics in financial inclusion

8.  Assist and encourage governments in facilitating the sector by providing research, support statements, and similar assistance

9.  Facilitate the education of microfinance institutions in the field on legal issues

10.  Serve as a resource of information and people to other committees and sections within NYSBA

11.  Provide a networking and discussion forum for microfinance-related NYSBA attorneys, who currently have no trade organization

12.  Facilitate discussion of microfinance and financial inclusion among various

       a.  legal systems (e.g. civil vs. common law)

       b.  banking systems (e.g. Islamic/participatory, and mobile)

       c.  currency systems (e.g, actual, virtual, and complementary), and

       d.  government systems (e.g., democratic, theocratic, socialist), and

       e.  economic systems (e.g., capitalist, communist, protectionist)

Int'l Section Note to UNCITRAL re: Microfinance 

For more information about this Committee, please contact Azish Filabi at Azish.Filabi@ny.frb.org or Julee Milham at julee@milhamLaw.com.

Committee Roster 

AFRICA COMMITTEE

Janiece Brown Spitzmueller, Esq. and Hon. George Bundy Smith  - Co-Chairs

Committee on International Contract and Commercial Law

International Contract and Commercial Law Committee New York Contracts Checklist (PDF) - this resource is for Section members only and requires login to access

Committee Roster

COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL TRADE

Updated information coming soon!