The Federal Ministry of Justice announced a draft law aimed at modernising Germany’s arbitration framework.
The proposal would make video hearings and electronic arbitral awards explicitly permissible. It would also allow state courts that handle arbitration cases to accept documents in English and to conduct proceedings in English. In addition, the draft seeks to encourage the publication of arbitral decisions.

Minister Stefanie Hubig (SPD) noted that Germany is already well positioned as a venue for arbitration but that the system could still be improved. She said the goal is to strengthen Germany’s reputation as a centre for justice and to modernise its arbitration law. Hubig emphasised that raising the transparency of arbitration procedures is essential, as transparency builds acceptance.