Charles Michel joins Clay Arbitration15 Mar 2026 20:32
REF : Press Release | Charles Michel joins Clay Arbitration
Clay Arbitration marks a new milestone in its development with the arrival of Charles
Michel as Senior Counsel, strengthening the firm’s practice in the resolution of major
international disputes.
The former Prime Minister of Belgium and President of the European Council until 2024,
Charles Michel will bring his unique experience in international governance and dispute
resolution to the firm’s clients, notably in relation to international arbitration, mediation,
and the negotiation of solutions to complex disputes involving State, institutional, and
private actors.
Charles Michel's experience in resolving political and economic crises—particularly
within the European Union—will be a major asset for companies and States facing
strategic and sensitive disputes.
A law graduate of the Université Libre de Bruxelles, Charles Michel pursued a remarkable
political career for over two decades, during which he played a central role in concluding
historic agreements at the European level: climate neutrality by 2050, the EU’s
multiannual budget, the post-COVID recovery plan, migration agreements, support for
Ukraine, coordination on sanctions, and more. He now brings his expertise in high-level
negotiation and institutional compromise to the practice of arbitration and international
dispute resolution.
“I am honored to join Clay Arbitration, a firm recognised for its excellence and
independence. I wish to continue my practice dedicated to dispute resolution and to
place my experience in diplomacy and the peaceful settlement of disputes at the service
of economic and institutional actors facing complex legal challenges,” said Charles
Michel.
Professor Thomas Clay, founder and managing partner of Clay Arbitration, added:
“Both for who he is and for what he represents, it is a privilege to welcome Charles Michel
to Clay Arbitration, whose activities have already largely expanded beyond France. With
him, a respected European figure joins us, someone who has built trusted relationships
at the highest levels both in Europe and throughout the world. Originally a lawyer, Charles
Michel wishes to reconnect with his first professional vocation. He will therefore be
involved in the daily work of Clay Arbitration, at the heart of the cases, for the benefit of
our clients.”
242, boulevard Raspail - 75014 Paris, France • Tél. : +33 (0)1 42 88 88 88 • Toque G0408
office@clayarbitration.com • www.clayarbitration.com
This addition forms part of the broader growth strategy of the firm, which recently
welcomed barrister Obioma Ofoego as Co-Head of its English law practice.
With these arrivals, Clay Arbitration confirms its position as a leading firm in international
arbitration and complex dispute resolution, at the intersection of law, economics, and
geopolitics.
To mark his arrival, Charles Michel will deliver the opening keynote address at a conference
organised by Clay A
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