Event Overview

AIJA is glad to welcome you from 13 to 16 November 2024 to the lovely city of Luxembourg, a modern, affluent European destination packed with culture, history, commerce and research, which sits at the heart of western Europe between France, Germany and Belgium. As a founding member and major legal and financial centre of the EU, the Grand Duchy despite its small size plays a key role in European integration and stands tall as a leading jurisdiction for Investment Funds, Corporate Structuring, International Tax Planning, Space Law, IP matters, and EU legislations implementation. With this in mind, the spotlight is on Luxembourg’s 2024 Half Year November Conference (HYC), where we delve into “Empowering Global Success: Unleashing the Potential of International Structures in a Heavily Regulated World.”

This conference will investigate how globalisation entices economic players and legal counsel to explore innovative solutions from foreign jurisdictions, like Luxembourg, capable of accommodating novel needs, as well as the surge of national, regional, and international regulations that reshape the private market and business models. In particular, this conference aims to investigate the impact of these burgeoning regulatory trends on the primary cross-border legal tools available to legal practitioners and businesses. The event ultimately aims to raise awareness among the AIJA community and ignite cooperation among legal professionals hailing from diverse jurisdictions, background and areas of expertise.

The HYC promises a dynamic and enriching platform for legal professionals. Here, attendees engage with cutting-edge legal content, explore the vast realm of opportunities in global corporate structuring, and confront the challenges posed by the surging tide of national regulations. This collaborative endeavour among international experts and practitioners seeks to equip participants with the knowledge and skills imperative for seizing opportunities and navigating the intricate regulatory landscape in an ever-changing global business milieu.

The Organising Committee will happily show you around lovely Luxembourg with its beautiful Old Town (UNESCO World Heritage site), modernity of its business centre, free transportation, vineyards and exciting hiking trails. You will also experience Luxembourg cuisine in the homes of local lawyers during the home hospitality dinners and get to go to very unique venues.


ACADEMIC PROGRAMME OVERVIEW

Track 1: The potential of international corporate & financing structures: seize the opportunity
 
This track is all about seizing international opportunities for efficient corporate and financial structuring. Here, participants will discover and discuss the main advantages offered by well-known and less well known jurisdictions, optimising investment structures, pioneering cross-border M&A deals, mastering forum shopping within litigation contexts, and grasping key tax incentives for diverse businesses like private equity and real estate. The panels will discuss how to gain valuable insights into regulatory incentives that sway investment decisions, particularly in the thriving investment funds market. They shall also address structuring concerns and pre-litigation strategic planning and fostering interactive exchanges.
Track 2: The Limits and Challenges of an International Business: Beware of National and International Regulations
 
This track zooms in on the principal regulatory challenges faced by international organisations and institutions amidst the waves of globalisation. Participants delve deep into the latest trends concerning corporate governance, financial institutions, and international taxation, including the implications of harnessing hybrid structures. Commissions will share their first-hand experiences with the daily complexities encountered by companies and investment funds as they adeptly navigate the everchanging
regulatory landscape. Moreover, we will explore how fraud, employment and labour play pivotal roles, impacting corporate compliance strategies in a perpetually evolving regulatory environment. Ensuring compliance with fast-moving regulations, subject to scrutiny from regulators, public prosecutors’ offices, and competitors, underscores the gravity of adhering to best practices in mitigating the prospects of litigation, commercial fraud, and insolvency. The collective wisdom of each respective AIJA commission imparts invaluable insights on these pivotal topics.

  

SOCIAL PROGRAMME OVERVIEW

WELCOME RECEPTION @ ECCL (European Convention Center Luxembourg) – Wednesday 13 November (18:00-20:00)

In the city called the “Gibraltar of the North”, we will kick-off the first evening of the Conference at the European Convention Center Luxembourg (ECCL). Located in the European quarter (right next to the European Parliament and Court of Justice), the center will welcome AIJA delegates for this Half-Year November Conference. After collecting your badge at the registration desk, join us for this first networking occasion and enjoy the food and drinks.

CONFERENCE DINNER & AFTERPARTY @ Cercle Cité Thursday 14 November (19:30-02:00)

Have a wonderful conference dinner in the cultural center Cercle Cité – a historical place with more than two centuries of existence. Experience the unique atmosphere of the venue in which famous people came such as former Queen Elizabeth II or French president François Mitterrand. Enjoy your tasty meal and party in this architectural jewel.

HOME HOSPITALITY DINNER @ Local Lawyers’ homes – Friday 15 November (19:30-23:00)

Do you want to experience more of the Western European culture? Then you are in for a treat! One of the most anticipated evenings with a personal-local touch is the ‘Home Hospitality Dinner’, where local lawyers/participants open their homes to welcome AIJA members from around the world with local traditions, food and drinks. Gain insights into the lifestyle and hospitality of your Luxembourgish peers in a friendly atmosphere experience. 

NOTE: Participants will individually receive the name of the host and their address via email. If you are unable to attend, please let the organisers know as soon as possible! Please remember to bring a small gift for the host, in the form of a souvenir from your country. Don’t forget that many of the hosts are not AIJA members and have never attended AIJA events before.

POST HOME HOSPITALITY AFTERPARTY @ Melusina– Friday 15 November (23:00-03:00)

After enjoying the wonderful home hospitality dinners, all delegates and hosts are pleased to join us for this afterparty in this nightclub located in Grund, the most popular nightlife quarter in the city. It will be the perfect chance to have fun and to chat with the AIJA community while enjoying the view of the river Alzette.

GALA DINNER and AFTERPARTY @ - Malt Innovative Factory (19:00-02:00)

A one-of-a-kind evening awaits all delegates for our closing Gala Dinner to be hosted at Malt Innovative Factory, a former beer bottling factory transformed into a unique venue for hosting events. This place combines industrial inspirations with a modern architectural spirit. Enjoy this wonderful dinner and afterparty in an exclusive scenography. Participants will also have the chance to visit an exhibition at Luca upstairs during the welcome drinks.

 
AIJA Commissions involved
  • Banking, Finance and Capital Markets
  • Business Crime and Civil Fraud
  • Corporate and M&A
  • Immigration Law
  • In-house Counsel
  • Insolvency
  • International Arbitration
  • International Business Law (+ Sports Law)
  • International Private Clients and Family Law
  • Labour Law (+ Immigration Law)
  • Litigation
  • Skills, Career, Innovation, Leadership and Learning (SCILL)
  • Tax Law
  • Transport and Logistics Law Commission
AIJA Interest Groups involved
  • AIJA Women Network

Programme

TRACK 1 - The potential of international corporate & financing structures: seize the opportunity

14:00 - 19:00


European Convention Center Luxembourg

Address:  4 Pl. de l'Europe, 1499 Neudorf-Weimershof Luxembourg
14:30 - 16:30


Only for speakers and moderators
14:30 - 17:30

16:30 - 17:30

18:00 - 20:00


address: 4 Pl. de l'Europe, 1499 Neudorf-Weimershof Luxembourg

07:00 - 08:00

08:00 - 18:00


European Convention Center Luxembourg

Address: 4 Pl. de l'Europe, 1499 Neudorf-Weimershof Luxembourg
09:00 - 09:45

09:45 - 10:00

10:00 - 11:15


Organised by the Banking and Finance and by Corporate M&A Commissions

Join us for an enlightening conference session tailored for legal professionals delving into the intricate world of investment funds and their pivotal role in the private equity driven M&A landscape. Throughout this engaging session, seasoned experts will navigate the complexities of setting up and managing investment funds, shedding light on innovative strategies for leveraging them to drive growth. From the initial structuring phase to the execution of mergers and acquisitions, attendees will gain invaluable insights into the legal intricacies involved in these transactions. Through real-world case studies and in-depth analysis, participants will uncover best practices to maximise the potential of private equity funds, while mitigating risks and ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your expertise and stay ahead in the dynamic landscape of corporate finance and investment law.
11:15 - 11:45

11:45 - 13:00

13:00 - 14:00

14:00 - 15:15


Organised by the Banking and Finance and Insolvency Commissions

Join us for an insightful session as we explore innovative strategies and best practices for navigating the nuances of cross-border financing restructuring. Through engaging discussions, case studies, and interactive Q&A sessions, you will gain practical knowledge and actionable insights that can be applied to your own cross-border financing projects.

Our keynote speaker and panel of industry experts will explore emerging trends, recent legislation, and innovative financing instruments. The discussion will offer invaluable insights into the complexities of cross-border restructuring. The discussion will also cover the complexities of cross-border restructuring, including the issue of applicable law and dispute resolution clauses in the context of recognizing and enforcing foreign judgments and arbitral awards, and opportunities for greener loans with ESG/sustainability provisions. The role of international financial institutions in the new wave of restructurings will also be discussed, along with identifying the most eligible sectors for restructuring based on best practices.
15:15 - 15:45

15:45 - 17:00


Organised by the Tax Law and International Private Clients and Family Law Commissions

Navigating the complexities of family business succession requires a delicate balance between legal foresight and strategic tax planning. This panel delves into the intricacies of family law as it pertains to the seamless transfer of leadership and ownership within a family enterprise, focusing on the preservation of family relationships and business continuity.

Taxation stands as a pivotal theme throughout the transition process, with a focus on minimizing liabilities and maximizing the financial health of the business for future generations, ensuring families are not late to the party when it comes to planning their business succession.
17:15 - 18:15

19:00

19:30 - 02:00


Address: 2 Rue Genistre, 1623 Ville-Haute Luxembourg

08:00 - 18:00


European Convention Center Luxembourg

Address: 4 Pl. de l'Europe, 1499 Neudorf-Weimershof Luxembourg
09:00 - 10:00

09:00 - 10:00

10:00 - 10:15

10:15 - 10:45


Organised by the SCILL Commission
10:45 - 11:15

11:15 - 12:30


Organised by the SCILL Commission
12:30 - 13:30

13:30 - 14:45

15:00 - 16:00

16:00 - 17:00

17:00 - 18:00

19:30 - 23:00

23:00 - 03:00


Address: 145 Rue de la Tour Jacob, 1831 Grund Luxembourg

09:00 - 13:00


Address: Quartier Européen Nord, 6 Rue du Fort Niedergruenewald, 2226 Luxembourg
10:00 - 11:00

11:00 - 11:30

11:30 - 13:00

14:30 - 16:30

18:30

19:00 - 02:00


Address: 1 Rue de la Tour Jacob, 1831 Grund Luxembourg
TRACK 2 - The limits and challenges of an international business: beware of national and international regulations

14:00 - 19:00


European Convention Center Luxembourg

Address: 4 Pl. de l'Europe, 1499 Neudorf-Weimershof Luxembourg
14:30 - 16:30


Only for speakers and moderators
14:30 - 17:30

16:30 - 17:30

18:00 - 20:00


address: 4 Pl. de l'Europe, 1499 Neudorf-Weimershof Luxembourg

07:00 - 08:00

08:00 - 18:15


European Convention Center Luxembourg

Address: 4 Pl. de l'Europe, 1499 Neudorf-Weimershof Luxembourg
09:00 - 09:45

09:45 - 10:00

10:00 - 11:15


Organised by the International Arbitration and International Business (+Sports) Law Commissions

This session could address the typical question of compliance in cross-border business and assess whether it constitutes only a burden for businesses or provides economic players with certainty and represents an opportunity for them. In this regard, it will examine how compliance matters impact on the strategies of the actors of the global economy, who often include arbitration as a dispute settlement mechanism in their contracts. It will then consider, for example, how frequently issues of non-compliance, such as corruption, are brought before arbitral tribunals. The session will then explore whether such issues are arbitrable and, if so, assess the arbitrators’ knowledge and capability in dealing with these technical and complex topics.
11:15 - 11:45

11:45 - 13:00


Organised by the Business Crime and Labour Law Commissions

Companies with employees spread across a number of countries are increasingly grappling with conflicting approaches to addressing whistleblowing claims, employment grievances and regulatory reporting requirements. This session will explore key risks and common pitfalls businesses are exposed to when seeking to address employment grievances and disputes across a number of jurisdictions. Companies with a global workforce will need to consider best practices that they can implement when investigating such matters and how to properly discharge their compliance and reporting obligations. The session experts will draw on their experience to explore practical steps when running an investigation and how this should be balanced against a company’s compliance requirements.
13:00 - 14:00

14:00 - 15:15


Organised by the Tax and Transport Law Commissions

This Session will address the challenges faced by key players involved in the purchase, taxation and transportation of goods in a globalising and digitalising world. A collaboration between the Transport Law Commission and the Tax Law Commission, this Session will provide a both transport law and a customs law perspective.

Through a case study, the panel will focus on the different regulations and contracts that are relevant for the key players, governing the purchase, freight forwarding, customs brokerage, transportation, warehousing, import and export of goods.

The speakers will give insights into challenges faced by the key players. What are the impact and risks of digitalisation, such as the use of online logistics platforms and electronic customs declarations? What happens if goods are stolen during transport? Will VAT or excise duties become due? Should the taxes and duties be borne by the buyer or the seller, and is a recourse action against the carrier possible? What happens if customs documents are incorrectly filled out? Which party will bear the fines and additional costs, and is a recourse action against the customs broker possible?

This Session will provide a practical approach to daily complexities and possible contractual solutions available to the parties involved in purchase, taxation and transportation.
15:15 - 15:45

15:45 - 17:00


Organised by the International arbitration and Litigation Commissions

In this session, we will delve into the critical strategies and legal frameworks that can protect directors, officers, shareholders, and affiliates from claims and look at effective ways of resolving disputes when they arise. Our discussion will focus on pre-emptive measures, effective governance practices, and the importance of clear contractual agreements to safeguard the interests of all parties involved taking into account modern ESG practices. We will explore the role of different dispute resolution mechanisms, including arbitration, litigation, and mediation, in efficiently resolving conflicts that arise potentially among various parties and across jurisdictions. The session will also address the specific challenges and solutions for joint ventures and partnerships, and the proactive role of legal advisors, offering insights into keeping businesses and their key stakeholders out of the danger zone.
17:15 - 18:15

19:00

19:30 - 02:00


Address: 2 Rue Genistre, 1623 Ville-Haute Luxembourg

08:00 - 18:00


European Convention Center Luxembourg

Address: 4 Pl. de l'Europe, 1499 Neudorf-Weimershof Luxembourg
09:00 - 10:00

09:00 - 10:00

10:00 - 10:15

10:15 - 10:45


Organised by the SCILL Commission
10:45 - 11:15

11:15 - 12:30


Organised by the SCILL Commission
12:30 - 13:30

13:30 - 14:45

15:00 - 16:00

16:00 - 17:00

17:00 - 18:00

19:30 - 23:00

23:00 - 03:00


Address: 145 Rue de la Tour Jacob, 1831 Grund Luxembourg

09:00 - 13:00


Address: Quartier Européen Nord, 6 Rue du Fort Niedergruenewald, 2226 Luxembourg
10:00 - 11:00

11:00 - 11:30

11:30 - 13:00

14:30 - 16:30

18:30

19:00 - 02:00


Address: 1 Rue de la Tour Jacob, 1831 Grund Luxembourg

Fees & General Info

There are currently no registration fees available.

General terms and conditions

By registering you have to accept the general terms and conditions and accept that your registration is considered binding immediately, but participation to the event is possible only after full payment of the registration fee.

Please note that any arrangements related to the participation of the participant in an AIJA event, including but not limited to booking or cancellation of accommodation or flights, as well as respecting the cancellation deadlines indicated in the general terms and conditions, are the sole responsibility of the participant. AIJA shall not be held liable for any expenses the participant may suffer as the result of participant’s failure to comply with his/her obligations.

It is recommended for each participant to purchase a cancellation and travel insurance.

Please note that in-house counsel registrations are subject to review and confirmation by AIJA. AIJA considers in-house counsel professionals who hold a university degree in law allowing access to a bar association and practicing law as an in-house counsel in private, public, or non-profit companies, institutions or organisations. Please note that in-house counsel who are at the same time active as fee-earning lawyers or consultants are not eligible to the discounted in-house counsel fee.

Please read the general terms and conditions applicable for AIJA events.

Scholarships

If you are a lawyer under 35 years old and meet the requirements, apply to our Scholarship Programme for this event. You can check more details here.

Prepare your stay

Nearby Hotels

AIJA has partnered with HotelMap, an online accommodation platform that offers a variety of budget-friendly options. By clicking on the button below, you will be able to choose from a wide range of alternative hotels near the event venue. With just a few clicks, you can easily book your accommodation directly on the platform.

Nearby Hotels

Practical Information

CONFERENCE VENUES

ECCL (European Convention Center Luxembourg)

Located in the Kirchberg business district, the European Convention Center Luxembourg (ECCL) will host the Luxembourg HYC from Wednesday 13 to Friday 15 November.

ECCL is part of the Convention Park Luxembourg: a unique complex that gathers every service and infrastructure necessary for the organisation of this Half-Year Conference. The four different hotels (Mama Shelter, Novotel Suites, Novotel Kirchberg and Sofitel), a total of eleven restaurants and bars, a shopping center as well as two major cultural centers (the Philarmonie and the Museum of Modern Art) are all located within a five-minute walk from the ECCL.

This place is also used to host the Councils of Ministers of the European Union three times a year. Thus, as a participant, you will benefit from the technologies, comfort and equipment that are available to the ministers too. You will also enjoy modern and equipped spaces with a hemicycle of 646 seats. Many of the spaces have natural light, high ceilings and wonderful views.

Sustainability @ European Convention Center Luxembourg

AIJA is pleased to partner with the European Convention Center Luxembourg (ECCL) on the occasion of this Half-Year Conference and supports all sustainability efforts and initiatives put in place by the center. Indeed, the ECCL is easily accessible for participants with reduced mobility and is EureWelcome certified. Learn more with a brief fact sheet HERE.

LOCATION:

4 Pl. de l'Europe, 1499 Neudorf-Weimershof Luxembourg

Tel : +352 43 02 57 751

Email : contact@eccl.lu

WEBSITE

HOW TO ACCESS THE CONFERENCE CENTER:

Five-minute walk from the four hotels (Sofitel, Novotel Suites, Novotel Kirchberg and Mama Shelter).

30-minute walk/6 minutes by car/20 minutes by public transport from the city center.

14 minutes by car/30 minutes by public transport from Luxembourg Airport.

TRANSPORT IN LUXEMBOURG CITY:

For the public transport map in Luxembourg city, please click HERE.

Please note that the public transports in Luxembourg are free to use.

 

Novotel Luxembourg Kirchberg 

On Saturday 16 November morning, the Conference will take place inside the Novotel Luxembourg Kirchberg located in the Kirchberg district which is very well served by public transportation. Enjoy the Crash Course and the Executive Committee Meeting in this beautiful and cozy space. A morning coffee break will also be offered to participants.

Louis & Félix room will welcome the participants to attend the meetings. This meeting room has patio doors and access to a sunny terrasse and to the beautiful gardens of the hotel. It is designated as the most beautiful meeting room by Novotel customers.

LOCATION:

Quartier Européen Nord, 6 Rue du Fort Niedergruenewald, 2226 Luxembourg

Tel : +352429848812

Email: H1930@accor.com

WEBSITE

HOW TO ACCESS THE HOTEL:

Five-minute walk from the other hotels (Sofitel, Mama Shelter and Novotel Suites)

30-minute walk/6 minutes by car/20 minutes by public transportation from the city center

14 minutes by car/30 minutes by public transport from Luxembourg Airport.

 

Organising Committee

Noémie COUTROT-CIESLINSKI
Noémie COUTROT-CIESLINSKI CC&C (FRANCE)
Charles DURO
Charles DURO Duro & Partners (LUXEMBOURG)
Caroline FORT
Caroline FORT Arendt & Medernach S.A. (LUXEMBOURG)
Audrey JARRETON
Audrey JARRETON Loyens & Loeff Luxembourg SARL (LUXEMBOURG)
Mattia MORANI
Mattia MORANI Elvinger Hoss Prussen (LUXEMBOURG)
Stéphanie ONEYSER
Stéphanie ONEYSER Walder Wyss Ltd. (SWITZERLAND)
Valerio SCOLLO
Valerio SCOLLO GSK Stockmann SA (LUXEMBOURG)
Philippe SYLVESTRE
Philippe SYLVESTRE Brucher Thieltgen & Partners (LUXEMBOURG)
Marjolein VAN REST
Marjolein VAN REST BarentsKrans Coöperatief U.A. (NETHERLANDS)
Eline VERELST
Eline VERELST Laurius BV CVBA (BELGIUM)

Sponsors

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If you have any questions, contact us on ‘Become a sponsor’ and check for more opportunities.

Become a sponsor More about sponsorship

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Your data will be managed by AIJA's General Services, Events and Accounts Section:

  • For the purpose of administering your registration for the event and your on-site access to the event;
  • In order to pay for the selected services - your bank details will be deleted after receipt of your payment;
  • In order to communicate information messages from AIJA.

To the extent necessary for the execution of their respective tasks, our subcontractors in charge of our seminar organisation, our IT infrastructure, our management, the production and maintenance of our website and extranet, are likely to gain access to your data from time to time. Their servers are located in the European Union.

Data relating to your participation in the event shall be stored for a period of 10 years. We are obliged to archive billing data until the end of the period required for our tax and accounting obligations, i.e. for 7 full tax years.

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