The determination of the seat in blockchain-based arbitration: the quest for the closest connection in a decentralised legal vacuum

Article

Hourani, S. and Farah, Y. 2026. The determination of the seat in blockchain-based arbitration: the quest for the closest connection in a decentralised legal vacuum. Transnational Dispute Management (TDM). 23 (1).
TypeArticle
TitleThe determination of the seat in blockchain-based arbitration: the quest for the closest connection in a decentralised legal vacuum
AuthorsHourani, S. and Farah, Y.
Abstract

The paper first delves into an explanation of blockchain-based arbitration and its system of self-governance by the law of code in section II. Section III then analyses the current position of the law on the determination of the lex arbitri in international arbitration and the current gaps in the law regarding the closest connection for the determination of the arbitral seat in blockchain-based arbitration. Sections IV and V explore the recent case law and policy developments on the determination of the relevant forum to hear disputes arising from web3-based transactions, and Section VI conducts an analysis of the potential impact of these recent developments on finding the closest connection in blockchain-based arbitration procedures.

Sustainable Development Goals16 Peace, justice and strong institutions
Middlesex University ThemeCreativity, Culture & Enterprise
PublisherMaris
JournalTransnational Dispute Management (TDM)
ISSN1875-4120
Publication dates
Online17 Mar 2026
PrintMar 2026
Publication process dates
Accepted17 Mar 2026
Deposited15 Jul 2026
Output statusPublished
Publisher's version
File Access Level
Open
Copyright Statement

© Copyright TDM 2026.
Published article made available in the Middlesex University Research Repository with publisher permission.

Additional information

Suggested citation:
S. Hourani; Y. Farah MCIArb, SFHEA; "The Determination of the Seat in Blockchain-based Arbitration: The Quest for the Closest Connection in a Decentralised Legal Vacuum"
TDM 1 (2026), www.transnational-dispute-management.com
URL: www.transnational-dispute-management.com/article.asp?key=3149

Web address (URL)https://www.transnational-dispute-management.com/article.asp?key=3149
LanguageEnglish
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