David Attanasio to Speak at the ILA (American Branch)’s International Law Weekend 2024

Womble Bond Dickinson Partner David Attanasio will take part as a panelist at the International Law Association (American Branch)’s International Law Weekend 2024 on October 25 in New York.

Attanasio’s panel, “International Investment and Human Rights: How Does International Law Control Environmental Impact on Local Communities” will discuss how large-scale industrial projects are economically critical but can have pernicious effects on surrounding communities. The Inter-American Court of Human Rights, in a recent landmark decision, found Peru internationally responsible for its failure to protect the people of La Oroya from pollution generated by a century-old metal smelter complex in the city. At the same time, the foreign owner of the complex is seeking damages before an investor-State arbitral tribunal in Renco v. Peru for Peru’s failure to afford adequate flexibility in meeting pollution control regulations, against a background of technical and financial difficulties. This litigation provides a fascinating case study for how international law does and can regulate industrial activity that touches on the law of human rights, environment, and foreign investment.  

Attanasio will be joined on the panel by Kristen Boon, University of Ottawa; Dawn Yamane Hewett, Quinn Emmanuel, LLP; and Penelope Simons, University of Ottawa.