The Fourth VIAC CAN Congress concluded successfully last week in Vienna, bringing together arbitration practitioners, experts, and thought leaders for two days of high-energy discussions and forward-looking debate. With packed rooms and a palpable sense of enthusiasm, the Congress once again proved to be a key platform for cultivating ideas into real impact within the global arbitration community.

A major highlight of this year’s edition was the keynote address by John Fellas, who spoke on “The Arbitrator in the Age of AI.” Delivered with characteristic clarity and insight, the address offered a timely and nuanced reflection on how artificial intelligence is reshaping arbitral practice, while underscoring that many questions about its role, limits, and implications remain open for exploration.

The 2026 Congress also introduced an innovative and much-appreciated presentation format titled “CANversations: VIAC’s 20×20 Vision.” Under this concept, speakers presented their visions for the future of arbitration within strict time limits, relying solely on visuals — including creative use of images and GIFs. The format struck a chord with participants, combining intellectual depth with an engaging and refreshingly different delivery style.

Continuing a much-loved Congress tradition, delegates gathered for a memorable Gala Dinner at the iconic Austrian National Library. The evening was further enhanced by an elegant live performance by a string quartet, providing a fitting cultural complement to the intellectual exchanges of the conference.

With tickets once again selling out quickly, the Fourth VIAC CAN Congress reaffirmed its position as a must-attend event on the arbitration calendar. Organisers have confirmed that dates for the next edition will be announced shortly, and participants are encouraged to stay tuned for further updates.