"It is not a book about ethics of arbitration or arbitration law, but a book which happily combines common sense, the psychology of arbitration, the knowledge of the matter and the arbitration process and which unveils aspects which generally are not dealt with in arbitration manuals. The analysis is clear, balanced, correct and not without a vein of humour: it outlines deviations and counterproductive attitudes which should be avoided by all the players in the arbitration process."
-Charles Jarrosson, Professor of Law at the Paris II University, Editor in chief, Revue de l'arbitrage
"Until I read Behind the Scenes in International Arbitration, I never had imagined that a book on arbitration could be a page-turner... Ugo Draetta is generously sharing his experiences in this field by offering us a useful, wise book which can be read with the pleasure normally reserved for good novels."
-Diego P. Fernández Arroyo, Sciences Po Law School, Paris
"This book examines points of view on arbitration that are not very usual in this type of literature, so I sincerely congratulate the author."
-Bernardo Cremades, International Arbitrator
"Knowledge of arbitration is never complete without exploring the backstage, how arbitration works in practice, how different actors, roles and stages interplay. With a distinguished career as arbitrator, academic and counsel (both external and in house), Professor Draetta is in a unique position to transmit such views. In a simple and amusing language, Ugo Draetta guides the reader through a comprehensive practical tour of how international arbitration works, what should be done and what should be avoided. Of incomparable value for those initiating their careers in international arbitration, Behind the Scenes is nevertheless of great help for experienced counsel and arbitrators who more often than expected lose perspective in this always dynamic and evolving field of international arbitration."
-Prof. Dr. Guido Santiago Tawil, arbitrator and counsel, former Co-Chair IBA Arbitration Committee
"A fascinating journey behind the curtains of international arbitration by one of the most renowned arbitrators and experienced practitioners. Ugo Draetta unveils the hidden dynamics of the relationship between arbitrators, advocates and in house counsels. A reading as pleasant as it is instructive"
-Alexis Mourre
"As has often been noted, much of the practice of domestic and international arbitration cannot be acquired from the many good books and learned treatises on the subject. Rather, it is the actual experiences of those who live the practice who convey it to those fortunate to be near them. It is that sort of "conversation" with listeners that Behind the Scenes captures, with arbitration seen from sides at times domestic, others international, through the eyes of a practitioner who has lived arbitration in-house, as external practitioner, and as an experienced arbitrator, and who is not afraid to express views as to which practices serve parties' interests or work against them. For those interested in international dispute resolution, there are few seats with better inside views, or easier and enjoyable to read."
-Michael McIlwrath, Associate General Counsel, Litigation -- General Electric Co. (USA) -- Oil&Gas
"Draetta's thoughtful and thought provoking recommendations to arbitrators should be obligatory reading before anyone is permitted to arbitrate an international dispute!"
-Juan Fernández-Armesto, Arbitrator
"Ugo Draetta writes with the authority and insight of one who has practiced international arbitration for many, many years. His experience is an invaluable guide not only to readers unfamiliar with international disputes but also to in-house lawyers and perhaps, above all, to specialist arbitration counsel who all too often lack the necessary self awareness to understand how their (mis)conduct of a case is perceived by international arbitrators. Mr Draetta's style is light and full of humour. It conveys the unique enjoyment of practising in this fascinating area of the law."
-Charles Kaplan, Joint Head, Global Arbitration Practice, Herbert Smith LLP
"Once in a very long while a book is written that can be defined as essential --not elective--reading for those who practice arbitration. Behind The Scenes in International Arbitration, by Professor Ugo Draetta, qualifies for that honour.
The publication clearly sets out what happens in the real trenches when establishing arbitral panels -- selecting co-arbitrators and chairs--and when arbitral tribunals and arbitration counsel are conducting arbitrations. Also, the book provides important do's and don'ts for arbitral proceedings. The anecdotal stories add to the reader's education and enjoyment.
It is essential reading for in-house counsel and those who are retained by those counsel, together with the decision-makers."
-Kenneth J Glasner Q C, former Trustee for the British Columbia International Commercial Arbitration Centre (BCICAC)
