Workshop on COMESA bilateral investment treaties and the need for reform

COMESA countries have signed over four hundred bilateral investment treaties (BITs), many of which were concluded during the 1990s and early 2000s when today’s sustainable development priorities were not yet on the agendas of policymakers. Old-generation treaties significantly differ from modern agreements and expose States to legal and financial risks. This session will explore the need for BIT reform, present strategic guidance on reform options and tools, and support IPA and ministry staff working on investment treaties in strengthening institutional preparedness for reform and planning the strategic review and prioritization of reform actions.