The international investment policy framework remains largely shaped by a network of outdated international investment agreements (IIAs), many of which do not adequately address contemporary policy priorities, including environmental sustainability, climate action, labour standards, and public health.

In recent years, a discernible global trend has emerged towards the reform of IIAs, as reflected in the content of treaties concluded over the past decade. While encouraging progress has been made—also within the ASEAN region—challenges to comprehensive reform remain. Further efforts are required to ensure that the ongoing reform of IIAs is effectively aligned with sustainable development objectives.

For this purpose, UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD), in collaboration with the ASEAN Secretariat, will host an online workshop on key reform issues in IIAs. The event will examine global trends in IIAs and investor-State dispute settlement (ISDS), assess key challenges within the current IIA regime, and highlight UNCTAD tools to accelerate reform in support of sustainable development. Discussions will also cover emerging issues in IIAs such as investment facilitation, responsible investment and public policy objectives.

The participants of this workshop are from the ASEAN Member States, particularly government officials and experts involved in investment policymaking. Registration details and logistical information will be communicated directly to the ASEAN Secretariat.