Amid ongoing volatility in global trade, driven by geopolitical competition, supply chain restructuring, digital transformation, and rapid technological advancement, the landscape of international commercial dispute resolution is also undergoing notable shifts. On the global map of arbitration and alternative dispute resolution (ADR), Vietnam is increasingly recognized as an emerging role with considerable potential at both the regional and international levels. Through a gradual process of institutional refinement, deeper integration, and more active participation in the global trading system, Vietnam is steadily positioning itself within Southeast Asia as a promising destination for dispute resolution. Over time, Vietnam has developed a legal framework that is increasingly aligned with international standards, while awareness and engagement among users of arbitration and ADR have grown significantly. Nevertheless, despite these positive foundations, the journey toward establishing Vietnam as a familiar, credible, and competitive dispute resolution venue on the global stage continues to present a range of demands and challenges. 

Against this backdrop, within the framework of Vietnam ADR Week – VAW 2026, the Seminar on “International Dispute Resolution In Times of Turbulence: Global Trends and Vietnam’s Emerging Roles” is conceived as a specialized forum to identify key trends in international commercial arbitration, assess the current practice of arbitration and ADR in Vietnam, and examine the country’s role and prospects within the global dispute resolution landscape. Through keynote remarks and multi-perspective panel discussions, the program aims to clarify Vietnam’s current standing in the regional arbitration landscape, highlight areas requiring further development to enhance credibility and competitiveness, and identify possible directions to strengthen business confidence, increase Vietnam’s attractiveness as a venue for international commercial dispute resolution, and reinforce the role of VIAC in this ongoing process.