PCA to weigh in on challenge to Vattenfall panel

In a break from recent practice, ICSID has agreed to seek a non-binding opinion from the Permanent Court of Arbitration regarding Germany’s attempt to disqualify the three arbitrators hearing its high-profile dispute with Swedish nuclear investor Vattenfall – in the wake of a complaint by the state that ICSID secretary-general Meg Kinnear prejudged the merits of the pending challenge.