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Bruges: Old Stones, New Orders
Legal Strategies to Adapt to Political and Economic Shifts
In a time of profound international shifts, the balance between economic resilience, technological innovation, and the protection of individual rights is becoming increasingly delicate.
Held at the very heart of the European Union in Bruges, this conference offers a timely forum to examine the legal complexities emerging from today’s rapidly changing world. As industries confront geopolitical tensions, regulatory upheavals, and the accelerating pace of digital transformation, legal practitioners are being called upon to provide clarity and leadership in uncharted territory.
From navigating the challenges posed by fragmented international markets to addressing the ethical and legal dimensions of advanced technologies, the program brings together young lawyers, legal minds, decision-makers, and industry voices, all ready to tackle the challenges ahead.
Beyond the academic programme, the conference will be enriched by a memorable social agenda set against the backdrop of Bruges—one of Europe’s most charming and culturally rich cities. With its fairytale canals, cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and world-famous chocolate and beer, Bruges offers the perfect setting to connect, unwind, and be inspired. Attendees will enjoy a carefully curated social programme that blends cultural experiences with networking opportunities, allowing participants to explore this UNESCO World Heritage city while forging meaningful professional connections. From elegant receptions to local tastings and a spectacular gala evening, the Bruges experience promises to be as enriching socially as it is intellectually.
ACADEMIC PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in in-depth discussions across two focused tracks, designed to address the most pressing legal issues of our time.
Track 1: The New Economy – Legal Challenges in Times of Change
What happens when the “global” economy starts to fragment? As political tensions rise, supply chains shift, and protectionist policies take hold, lawyers are increasingly called upon to guide clients through a world that no longer plays by the same rules.
This track delves into the legal tools and strategies needed to navigate uncertainty in cross-border M&A, real estate, finance, and private wealth. Panels will explore how sanctions, regulatory developments, and political instability are reshaping deal-making, compliance, and dispute resolution—offering insights into how legal professionals can adapt and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving economic landscape.
Track 2: In the Crossfire – Technology, Law, and the Defense of Freedoms
In an era marked by world-wide uncertainty, powerful technologies can become weapons in geopolitics and law. Within this evolving landscape, for example, algorithmic control and surveillance have gained particular significance, presenting serious risks to fundamental rights such as personal autonomy and privacy.
Moreover, we are witnessing a growing conflict as some nations impose technological embargoes on others. These actions can limit access to critical innovations, patents, and proprietary software, thereby hindering global trade and innovation while raising concerns over intellectual property rights. Such tech-related conflicts also have far-reaching consequences from a cybersecurity perspective, particularly in efforts to circumvent the embargoes, as well as impacting cryptocurrency, banking, and financial regulations.
This track will explore how legal professionals can navigate this technological battlefield, while safeguarding freedoms, dignity, and democratic values in an increasingly interconnected world.
SOCIAL PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
WELCOME RECEPTION @ Provincial Palace – Wednesday, 27 May (18:30-20:30)
Join us in the heart of Bruges at the magnificent Provincial Palace, a striking neo-Gothic landmark on the iconic Market Square. Set in a UNESCO World Heritage city, this historic venue offers an inspiring backdrop for networking and connection, where centuries of heritage meet modern elegance. A truly unforgettable setting to launch the conference.
CONFERENCE DINNER & AFTERPARTY @ Port Bleu – Thursday, 28 May (19:30-02:00)
Join us for an unforgettable conference dinner and afterparty at Port Bleu, a stunning waterfront venue overlooking the marina of Zeebrugge. Enjoy an elegant evening by the sea, combining great food and lively conversation, followed by a lively afterparty.
A perfect blend of elegance, energy, and celebration. A highlight of the Bruges Conference you won’t want to miss!
HOME HOSPITALITY DINNER @ Local Lawyers’ Homes – Friday, 29 May (20:00-23:00)
Discover the charm and warmth of Belgian hospitality during the Home Hospitality Dinner. Local lawyers will open their homes to welcome delegates for an intimate evening of meaningful conversations, delicious home-cooked food, and authentic local traditions.
This much-loved event offers a unique opportunity to connect with fellow participants in a relaxed, personal setting and experience Belgian culture through the eyes of your local hosts.
NOTE: Participants will individually receive the name of their host and the address by email. If you are unable to attend, please inform the organisers as soon as possible. Kindly remember to bring a small gift for your host, ideally a souvenir from your home country. Please note that many hosts are not AIJA members and may be attending an AIJA event for the first time.
POST HOME HOSPITALITY AFTERPARTY @ Bruges Beer Experience – Friday, 29 May (23:00–03:00)
After the Home Hospitality Dinners, continue the evening together at the Bruges Beer Experience, located in the heart of Bruges’ historic centre. Gather with fellow delegates and hosts for a relaxed and lively afterparty, where conversation flows as easily as the beer.
Discover a wide selection of Belgian beers, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, and celebrate the night with the AIJA community in a truly local setting. The perfect way to round off a memorable evening.
GALA DINNER & AFTERPARTY @ La Brugeoise – Saturday, 30 May (19:30–03:00)
Join us for a spectacular closing evening at La Brugeoise, an iconic industrial venue that sets the stage for an unforgettable Gala Dinner and Afterparty. Housed in a former industrial complex, this unique space blends raw character with contemporary elegance, creating the perfect atmosphere to celebrate the end of the conference in style.
Enjoy a refined dinner followed by a lively afterparty, where music, conversation, and celebration come together. An exceptional night to connect, toast, and dance with fellow delegates and the perfect finale to the Bruges Conference.
AIJA ALUMNI GATHERING IN BRUGES
On the occasion of the Bruges Conference, we are delighted to invite AIJA Alumni to a dedicated gathering organised by Alumni for Alumni. This special lunch will take place at LIOS, a refined and contemporary restaurant located in the heart of Bruges, offering the perfect setting to reconnect and share memories.
Following the success of previous Alumni gatherings in cities such as Paris, Luxembourg, Milan, and Hamburg, we are pleased to continue this cherished tradition of bringing together AIJA Alumni (Past AIJA Members aged 45+). Join us for an afternoon of warm conversations, shared experiences, and Belgian hospitality at its finest.
LIOS is known for its elegant atmosphere and high-quality cuisine, combining modern flair with a welcoming, relaxed setting that is ideal for meaningful exchanges and an enjoyable midday break during the conference.
When?
Saturday, 30 May 13:30-15:30
Who?
Exclusive event reserved for AIJA Alumni (Past AIJA Members aged 45+)
Accompanying persons (spouses) may be accepted subject to the availability of the selected function(s). Please contact the AIJA Team at office@aija.org for information.
Where?
LIOS
Bruges, Belgium
Price: 120 EUR (excl. VAT if applicable)
20 seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The ticket to the Alumni lunch includes a welcome drink, a seated 3-course menu with wine, water, coffee & tea.
Note: Alumni have the possibility to book tickets to the following Half-Year May Conference social programme via the same registration form:
- Home Hospitality afterparty at Bruges Beer Experience – Friday, 29 May (23:00–03:00).
- Gala Dinner & Closing Party at La Brugeoise – Saturday, 30 May (19:30–03:00).
Registrations (subject to availability of places) must be done by 15 May 2026 (12:00 CET) at the latest.
AIJA Commissions involved
- Antitrust
- Banking, Finance and Capital Markets
- Business Crime and Civil Fraud
- Corporate and M&A
- Environmental and Energy Law
- Healthcare and Life Sciences
- Immigration Law
- Insolvency
- Intellectual Property, Technology, Media, and Telecommunications
- International Arbitration
- International Business Law (+ Sports Law)
- International Private Clients and Family Law
- Labour Law (+ Immigration Law)
- Litigation
- Public Procurement Law
- Real Estate
- Sports Law
- T.R.A.D.E. (Trade, Retail, Agency, Distribution, E-commerce)
- Tax Law
- Transport and Logistics Law
AIJA Interest Groups involved
- Human Rights Committee
- In-House Counsel Board
- Skills, Career, Innovation, Leadership and Learning (SCILL) Board
Diamond
Platinum
Emerald
Conference App
Silver
Bronze
Destination Sponsors
Track #1: The New Economy – Legal Challenges in Times of Change
13:00 - 18:00
Address: Beursplein 1, 8000 Bruges, Belgium
14:00 - 17:00
Extended Bureau Meeting
15:00 - 17:00
17:15 - 18:15
Address: Beursplein 1, 8000 Bruges, Belgium
Is this your first AIJA event? Come and meet other first-timers, more experienced attendees, and AIJA officers. Get to know the AIJA spirit and enjoy the event to the fullest!
18:30 - 20:30
Address: Markt 3, 8000 Bruges, Belgium
20:30
Optional Dinner at Several Restaurants
07:00 - 08:00
AIJA Run for Human Rights
08:00 - 18:00
Address: Beursplein 1, 8000 Bruges, Belgium
09:00 - 09:20
Welcome Address by AIJA President Arthur Stüssi
09:20 - 10:45
Organised by Transport and Logistics Law, Intellectual Property, Technology, Media, and Telecommunications (IP/TMT) and Public Procurement Law (PPL) Commissions
As nations invest in drone technologies through joint defense initiatives, legal questions around dual-use capabilities are growing more complex.
This panel will explore how cross-border alliances navigate public procurement, IP protection, and regulation, focusing on technologies that bridge civilian and defense applications. Speakers will also address liability, standardisation, and compliance, offering guidance for lawyers in this rapidly evolving field.
As nations invest in drone technologies through joint defense initiatives, legal questions around dual-use capabilities are growing more complex.
This panel will explore how cross-border alliances navigate public procurement, IP protection, and regulation, focusing on technologies that bridge civilian and defense applications. Speakers will also address liability, standardisation, and compliance, offering guidance for lawyers in this rapidly evolving field.
10:45 - 11:15
Networking Coffee Break
11:15 - 12:30
Organised by Litigation and Business Crime and Civil Fraud Commissions and Skills, Career, Innovation, Leadership and Learning (SCILL) and In-House Counsel Boards
In the global cyber battlefield, ransomware attacks have emerged as one of the most disruptive - and lucrative - forms of digital extortion. These attacks do not just paralyse systems; they create a cascade of legal, regulatory, and reputational crises for victims across borders.
This session will examine the legal complexities of ransomware from tracing crypto-ransom payments and coordinating with law enforcement and cross-border asset recovery. We will also explore the fine line between victim response and criminal liability, and how lawyers can help clients safeguard both operational resilience and fundamental freedoms in a world where technology is weaponised.
In the global cyber battlefield, ransomware attacks have emerged as one of the most disruptive - and lucrative - forms of digital extortion. These attacks do not just paralyse systems; they create a cascade of legal, regulatory, and reputational crises for victims across borders.
This session will examine the legal complexities of ransomware from tracing crypto-ransom payments and coordinating with law enforcement and cross-border asset recovery. We will also explore the fine line between victim response and criminal liability, and how lawyers can help clients safeguard both operational resilience and fundamental freedoms in a world where technology is weaponised.
12:30 - 14:00
Networking Lunch
14:00 - 15:00
Organised by Corporate and M&A and Insolvency Commissions
Globalisation is being reshaped by rising protectionism, trade wars, and localisation requirements, forcing multinational groups to rethink or even dismantle long-standing cross-border structures.
This panel will explore the legal and financial challenges of strategic or forced de-integration, from spin-offs and carve-outs to governance conflicts and creditor risks. With insights from key sectors such as tech, pharma, and critical infrastructure, the session will highlight how lawyers can guide clients through politically driven reorganizations in an increasingly fragmented global economy.
Globalisation is being reshaped by rising protectionism, trade wars, and localisation requirements, forcing multinational groups to rethink or even dismantle long-standing cross-border structures.
This panel will explore the legal and financial challenges of strategic or forced de-integration, from spin-offs and carve-outs to governance conflicts and creditor risks. With insights from key sectors such as tech, pharma, and critical infrastructure, the session will highlight how lawyers can guide clients through politically driven reorganizations in an increasingly fragmented global economy.
15:00 - 15:30
Networking Coffee Break
15:30 - 16:30
Organised by Healthcare and Life Sciences and T.R.A.D.E. (Trade, Retail, Agency, Distribution, E-commerce) Commissions
The pandemic revealed the fragility of global medicine supply chains, prompting governments to adopt protectionist measures such as the EU’s Critical Medicines Act and U.S. reshoring policies.
This session will explore how lawyers can help life sciences companies navigate export restrictions, regulatory reforms, and geopolitical risks while building resilient and compliant supply chains.
The pandemic revealed the fragility of global medicine supply chains, prompting governments to adopt protectionist measures such as the EU’s Critical Medicines Act and U.S. reshoring policies.
This session will explore how lawyers can help life sciences companies navigate export restrictions, regulatory reforms, and geopolitical risks while building resilient and compliant supply chains.
16:30 - 17:15
Joint Academic Programme Committee (APC) & Officers of the Commissions Committee (OCC) Meeting
16:30 - 17:15
National Representatives Committee (NRC) Meeting
16:30 - 17:15
Human Rights Committee (HRC) meeting
17:30 - 18:15
19:30 - 02:00
Address: Vismijnstraat 83, 8380 Bruges, Belgium
08:00 - 18:00
Address: Beursplein 1, 8000 Bruges, Belgium
09:00 - 09:45
09:45 - 10:30
10:30 - 11:45
Organised by International Private Clients and Family and Tax Law Commissions
In a world of mobility and global lifestyles, tax residency has become increasingly contested, with major implications not only for taxation but also inheritance, divorce, and family governance.
This session will examine how shifting residency status affects private clients, founders, and globally mobile families, exploring the interplay between tax audits, succession planning, matrimonial disputes, and cross-border family structures. Practical insights will focus on sustaining residency claims, mitigating risks, and navigating disputes in an era of stricter enforcement.
In a world of mobility and global lifestyles, tax residency has become increasingly contested, with major implications not only for taxation but also inheritance, divorce, and family governance.
This session will examine how shifting residency status affects private clients, founders, and globally mobile families, exploring the interplay between tax audits, succession planning, matrimonial disputes, and cross-border family structures. Practical insights will focus on sustaining residency claims, mitigating risks, and navigating disputes in an era of stricter enforcement.
11:45 - 12:15
Networking Coffee Break
12:15 - 13:30
Organised by International Business Law (+ Sports Law) and Antitrust Commissions
Digital platforms are transforming global business models while raising complex challenges at the intersection of international business law and antitrust enforcement.
This panel will explore how new regulations and competition scrutiny impact platform governance, liability, and market access across jurisdictions. With insights from global enforcement trends, speakers will discuss how companies can stay compliant, mitigate risks, and scale digital business models sustainably.
Digital platforms are transforming global business models while raising complex challenges at the intersection of international business law and antitrust enforcement.
This panel will explore how new regulations and competition scrutiny impact platform governance, liability, and market access across jurisdictions. With insights from global enforcement trends, speakers will discuss how companies can stay compliant, mitigate risks, and scale digital business models sustainably.
13:30 - 14:30
Networking Lunch
14:30 - 15:45
Organised by Banking, Finance and Capital Markets and Real Estate Commissions
Geopolitical tensions are pushing companies to reconfigure supply chains and strategic infrastructure by relocating to “friendly” countries.
This friend shoring trend is driving a rise in cross border industrial real estate projects that require innovative financing structures. In this panel, real estate and banking lawyers will discuss legal strategies for financing and developing logistics hubs, manufacturing facilities, energy storage, and defense infrastructure in politically aligned jurisdictions.
The discussion will also examine the effects of rising construction costs, shifting investment geographies, government incentives, and protectionist trade measures, highlighting how counsel can help clients secure funding and approvals across multiple jurisdictions under evolving regulatory frameworks. As geopolitical tensions, economic instability, and fast-evolving technologies converge, business crime is becoming more complex and harder to contain.
Geopolitical tensions are pushing companies to reconfigure supply chains and strategic infrastructure by relocating to “friendly” countries.
This friend shoring trend is driving a rise in cross border industrial real estate projects that require innovative financing structures. In this panel, real estate and banking lawyers will discuss legal strategies for financing and developing logistics hubs, manufacturing facilities, energy storage, and defense infrastructure in politically aligned jurisdictions.
The discussion will also examine the effects of rising construction costs, shifting investment geographies, government incentives, and protectionist trade measures, highlighting how counsel can help clients secure funding and approvals across multiple jurisdictions under evolving regulatory frameworks. As geopolitical tensions, economic instability, and fast-evolving technologies converge, business crime is becoming more complex and harder to contain.
15:45 - 16:15
Networking Coffee Break
16:00 - 18:30
Executive Committee Meeting
20:00 - 23:00
Home Hospitality Dinner
23:00 - 03:00
Address: Breidelstraat 3, 8000 Bruges, Belgium
09:00 - 13:00
Address: Stalijzerstraat 19, 8000 Bruges, Belgium
10:00 - 11:00
11:00 - 11:30
Networking Coffee Break
11:30 - 13:00
14:30 - 16:30
Optional City Tours
19:30 - 03:00
Address: Vaartdijkstraat 7, 8200 Bruges, Belgium
Track #2: In the Crossfire – Technology, Law, and the Defense of Freedoms
13:00 - 18:00
Address: Beursplein 1, 8000 Bruges, Belgium
14:00 - 17:00
Extended Bureau Meeting
15:00 - 17:00
17:15 - 18:15
Address: Beursplein 1, 8000 Bruges, Belgium
Is this your first AIJA event? Come and meet other first-timers, more experienced attendees, and AIJA officers. Get to know the AIJA spirit and enjoy the event to the fullest!
18:30 - 20:30
Address: Markt 3, 8000 Bruges, Belgium
20:30
Optional Dinner at Several Restaurants
07:00 - 08:00
AIJA Run for Human Rights
08:00 - 18:00
Address: Beursplein 1, 8000 Bruges, Belgium
09:00 - 09:20
Welcome Address by AIJA President Arthur Stüssi
09:20 - 10:45
Organised by Transport and Logistics Law, Intellectual Property, Technology, Media, and Telecommunications (IP/TMT) and Public Procurement Law (PPL) Commissions
As nations invest in drone technologies through joint defense initiatives, legal questions around dual-use capabilities are growing more complex.
This panel will explore how cross-border alliances navigate public procurement, IP protection, and regulation, focusing on technologies that bridge civilian and defense applications. Speakers will also address liability, standardisation, and compliance, offering guidance for lawyers in this rapidly evolving field.
As nations invest in drone technologies through joint defense initiatives, legal questions around dual-use capabilities are growing more complex.
This panel will explore how cross-border alliances navigate public procurement, IP protection, and regulation, focusing on technologies that bridge civilian and defense applications. Speakers will also address liability, standardisation, and compliance, offering guidance for lawyers in this rapidly evolving field.
10:45 - 11:15
Networking Coffee Break
11:15 - 12:30
Organised by Litigation and Business Crime and Civil Fraud Commissions and Skills, Career, Innovation, Leadership and Learning (SCILL) and In-House Counsel Boards
In the global cyber battlefield, ransomware attacks have emerged as one of the most disruptive - and lucrative - forms of digital extortion. These attacks do not just paralyse systems; they create a cascade of legal, regulatory, and reputational crises for victims across borders.
This session will examine the legal complexities of ransomware from tracing crypto-ransom payments and coordinating with law enforcement and cross-border asset recovery. We will also explore the fine line between victim response and criminal liability, and how lawyers can help clients safeguard both operational resilience and fundamental freedoms in a world where technology is weaponised.
In the global cyber battlefield, ransomware attacks have emerged as one of the most disruptive - and lucrative - forms of digital extortion. These attacks do not just paralyse systems; they create a cascade of legal, regulatory, and reputational crises for victims across borders.
This session will examine the legal complexities of ransomware from tracing crypto-ransom payments and coordinating with law enforcement and cross-border asset recovery. We will also explore the fine line between victim response and criminal liability, and how lawyers can help clients safeguard both operational resilience and fundamental freedoms in a world where technology is weaponised.
12:30 - 14:00
Networking Lunch
14:00 - 15:00
Organised by International Arbitration and Litigation Commissions
Artificial intelligence is reshaping not only legal work but also the nature of evidence. From AI-generated documents to deepfakes, predictive analytics, and manipulated metadata, the line between truth and simulation is blurring.
This panel will explore how courts and arbitral tribunals are confronting these evidentiary challenges - from questions of authenticity, reliability, and admissibility to the right to challenge algorithmic proof - offering practical strategies for litigators and arbitrators facing this new evidentiary battlefield.
Artificial intelligence is reshaping not only legal work but also the nature of evidence. From AI-generated documents to deepfakes, predictive analytics, and manipulated metadata, the line between truth and simulation is blurring.
This panel will explore how courts and arbitral tribunals are confronting these evidentiary challenges - from questions of authenticity, reliability, and admissibility to the right to challenge algorithmic proof - offering practical strategies for litigators and arbitrators facing this new evidentiary battlefield.
15:00 - 15:30
Networking Coffee Break
15:30 - 16:30
Organised by Skills, Career, Innovation, Leadership and Learning (SCILL) and In-House Counsel Boards
Artificial intelligence is already transforming how law firms and legal departments research, draft, manage matters, and deliver value. Despite growing interest and an expanding range of tools, many professionals still struggle to move from experimentation to consistent and compliant use. This panel focuses on how lawyers are using AI today to improve both billable and nonbillable workflows.
Bringing together tech savvy law firm and in-house counsel with representatives from leading legal AI providers, the discussion will explore real world use cases, adoption strategies, and practical guardrails. Panelists will share what works, what doesn’t, and how AI can be integrated into daily practice while preserving professional judgment, confidentiality, and ethical standards.
The session will also address key AI applications across the legal workflow, platform comparisons, emerging build your own and vibe coding tools, and how organizations balance billable efficiency gains with nonbillable productivity and quality of life improvements.
Artificial intelligence is already transforming how law firms and legal departments research, draft, manage matters, and deliver value. Despite growing interest and an expanding range of tools, many professionals still struggle to move from experimentation to consistent and compliant use. This panel focuses on how lawyers are using AI today to improve both billable and nonbillable workflows.
Bringing together tech savvy law firm and in-house counsel with representatives from leading legal AI providers, the discussion will explore real world use cases, adoption strategies, and practical guardrails. Panelists will share what works, what doesn’t, and how AI can be integrated into daily practice while preserving professional judgment, confidentiality, and ethical standards.
The session will also address key AI applications across the legal workflow, platform comparisons, emerging build your own and vibe coding tools, and how organizations balance billable efficiency gains with nonbillable productivity and quality of life improvements.
16:30 - 17:15
Joint Academic Programme Committee (APC) & Officers of the Commissions Committee (OCC) Meeting
16:30 - 17:15
National Representatives Committee (NRC) Meeting
16:30 - 17:15
Human Rights Committee (HRC) meeting
17:30 - 18:15
19:30 - 02:00
Address: Vismijnstraat 83, 8380 Bruges, Belgium
08:00 - 18:00
Address: Beursplein 1, 8000 Bruges, Belgium
09:00 - 09:45
09:45 - 10:30
10:30 - 11:45
Organised by Labor Law (+ Immigration Law), Environmental and Energy Law and Healthcare and Life Sciences Commissions
As the EU AI Act nears implementation, legal advisors are shifting from theory to practice.
This panel will explore real-world cases involving AI classification, high-risk use assessments, compliance planning, and liability exposure. From startups building generative models to companies deploying AI in HR, energy, environment, or health, speakers will share advisory experiences, highlight grey areas, and discuss how to future-proof client strategies as the regulation begins to reshape the legal landscape.
As the EU AI Act nears implementation, legal advisors are shifting from theory to practice.
This panel will explore real-world cases involving AI classification, high-risk use assessments, compliance planning, and liability exposure. From startups building generative models to companies deploying AI in HR, energy, environment, or health, speakers will share advisory experiences, highlight grey areas, and discuss how to future-proof client strategies as the regulation begins to reshape the legal landscape.
11:45 - 12:15
Networking Coffee Break
12:15 - 13:30
Organised by International Arbitration and Intellectual Property, Technology, Media, and Telecommunications (IP/TMT) Commissions
As technological leadership becomes both a strategic asset and a source of geopolitical tension, cross-border intellectual property disputes are growing more frequent, complex, and sensitive.
This panel will examine the use of arbitration to resolve high-stakes IP disputes involving patented technologies, advanced software, trade secrets, and complex licensing, and will address challenges of arbitrability, enforcement, and confidentiality.
As technological leadership becomes both a strategic asset and a source of geopolitical tension, cross-border intellectual property disputes are growing more frequent, complex, and sensitive.
This panel will examine the use of arbitration to resolve high-stakes IP disputes involving patented technologies, advanced software, trade secrets, and complex licensing, and will address challenges of arbitrability, enforcement, and confidentiality.
13:30 - 14:30
Networking Lunch
14:30 - 15:45
Organised by Intellectual Property, Technology, Media, and Telecommunications (IP/TMT) and T.R.A.D.E. (Trade, Retail, Agency, Distribution, E-commerce) Commissions
As information moves at algorithmic speed, disinformation is becoming a strategic weapon in politics, business, and public debate. AI-generated deepfakes, bot networks, and manipulative advertising can distort markets, damage reputations, and impact cross-border trade.
This panel will examine how frameworks like the EU Digital Services Act (DSA) and the Code of Practice on Disinformation are reshaping platform duties and helping lawyers protect companies from AI-driven disinformation.
As information moves at algorithmic speed, disinformation is becoming a strategic weapon in politics, business, and public debate. AI-generated deepfakes, bot networks, and manipulative advertising can distort markets, damage reputations, and impact cross-border trade.
This panel will examine how frameworks like the EU Digital Services Act (DSA) and the Code of Practice on Disinformation are reshaping platform duties and helping lawyers protect companies from AI-driven disinformation.
15:45 - 16:15
Networking Coffee Break
16:00 - 18:30
Executive Committee Meeting
20:00 - 23:00
Home Hospitality Dinner
23:00 - 03:00
Address: Breidelstraat 3, 8000 Bruges, Belgium
09:00 - 13:00
Address: Stalijzerstraat 19, 8000 Bruges, Belgium
10:00 - 11:00
11:00 - 11:30
Networking Coffee Break
11:30 - 13:00
14:30 - 16:30
Optional City Tours
19:30 - 03:00
Address: Vaartdijkstraat 7, 8200 Bruges, Belgium
Fees & General Info
AIJA Members
AIJA Member < 35 - On or before February 19
AIJA Member < 35 - On or before May 05
AIJA Member < 35 - After May 05
AIJA Member >= 35 - On or before February 19
AIJA Member >= 35 - On or before May 05
AIJA Member >= 35 - After May 05
Collective Member < 35 - On or before February 19
Collective Member < 35 - On or before May 05
Collective Member < 35 - After May 05
Collective Member >= 35 - On or before February 19
Collective Member >= 35 - On or before May 05
Collective Member >= 35 - After May 05
Non AIJA Members
Non AIJA Member < 35 - On or before February 19
Non AIJA Member < 35 - On or before May 05
Non AIJA Member < 35 - After May 05
Non AIJA Member >= 35 - On or before February 19
Non AIJA Member >= 35 - On or before May 05
Non AIJA Member >= 35 - After May 05
For all
Speaker - On or before February 19
Speaker - On or before May 05
Speaker - After May 05
In-House Counsel - On or before February 19
In-House Counsel - On or before May 05
In-House Counsel - After May 05
Academic Pass - On or before February 19
Academic Pass - On or before May 05
Academic Pass - After May 05
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
ACCOMMODATION IN BRUGES
Dukes’ Palace Hotel - 5-star SUP
Contact details:
Address: Prinsenhof 8, 8000 Brugge
Tel: +32 (0)50 44 78 88
Email: info@hoteldukespalace.com
Website: https://hoteldukespalace.com/
Cancellation Policy:
These rooms may be cancelled by the guest free of charge up to two (2) weeks prior to arrival. The room must be cancelled by email. Cancellations made within two (2) weeks of arrival are non-refundable.
Check the 'Read more' document to book your room.
| READ MORE |
Grand Hotel Casselbergh - 4 star
Contact details:
Address: Hoogstraat 6, 8000 Brugge
Tel: +32 (0)50 44 65 00
Email: info@grandhotelcasselbergh.com
Website: https://www.grandhotelcasselbergh.be/
Cancellation Policy:
Individual cancellation is possible until 6 weeks prior to arrival.
Cancellation between 6 weeks & 1 week prior to arrival : 50% cancellation fee.
In case of late cancellation or no show, there’s no possibility for a refund.
| READ MORE | BOOK YOUR ROOM HERE |
Dukes' Academy - 4 star
Contact details:
Address: Wijngaardstraat 7/9, 8000 Brugge
Tel: +32 (0)50 33 22 66
Email: info@dukesacademie.com
Website: https://www.dukesacademie.com/
Subject to availability, participants who would like to book can make a reservation by completing this form and mailing it to sales@dukesacademie.com.
Cancellation policy:
Cancellation as from 2 weeks prior to arrival: 100% cancellation fee.
| READ MORE |
Hotel Aragon - 4 star
Contact details:
Address: Naaldenstraat 22, 8000 Brugge
Tel: +32 (0)50 33 35 337
Email: info@aragon.be
Website: https://www.aragon.be/
Rooms can be booked upon availability. Guests can register by completing this form and sending it to groups@aragon.be.
Cancellation Policy:
Individual cancellation is possible until 6 weeks prior to arrival.
Cancellation between 6 weeks & 1 week prior to arrival: 50% cancellation fee.
In case of late cancellation or no show, there’s no possibility for a refund.
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Boutique Hotel Sablon - 4 star
Contact details:
Address: Kopstraat 10, 8000 Brugge
Tel: +32 (0)50 96 02 46
Email: maite@cwhospitality.be
Website: https://www.hotelsablon.be/en
Rooms can be booked subject to availability. Please contact Maité Van Hoorenweder directly at maite@cwhospitality.be, mentioning that your request is for the AIJA May Half-Year Conference.
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Hotel Portinari - 4 star
Contact details:
Address: ‘t Zand 15, 8000 Bruges
Tel: +32 (0)50 34 10 34
Book rooms online with the promotional code: AIJA-Bruges2026 to receive a 10% discount.
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Martin’s Brugge - 3 star SUP
Contact details:
Address: Oude Burg 5, 8000 Brugge
Tel: +32 (0)50 44 51 11
Email: resa.brugge@martinshotels.com
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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.
Practical Information
CONFERENCE VENUES
The Exhibition, Meeting and Congress Centre in Bruges (BMCC)
The Exhibition, Meeting and Congress Centre in Bruges (BMCC) is the ideal location for special events, conferences and trade fairs. Besides the impressive ground floor with an area of 4,500m² - perfect for trade fairs, larger public events and concerts - there is the conference area on the upper floors. The BMCC has multiple spaces to offer such as the impressive multifunctional hall of 4,500m², a plenary hall, a spacious foyer, breakout rooms and a unique space for 500 people (The View) with terrace on the top floor, so you can choose the ideal space that perfectly suits your event. Of course, you always get the beautiful view of the historic city center with it!
You can easily reach the BMCC on foot, by bicycle, via public transport and by car. The BMCC is located in the heart of the historic city center within walking distance of numerous hotels, historic attractions and world-famous museums.
Venue details:
Date: May 26th until May 30th 2026, from 8 AM until 6 PM
Address: Sint-Maartensblik 1, 8000 Brugge
Phone:+32(0)50 89 35 47
Website: https://bmccbruges.com/
How to Access:
- Nearest bus stop: 't Zand
- Nearest station: Station Brugge
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St Magdalene’s Church (Madeleine in Brugge)
On Saturday morning, the Conference will take place at St Magdalene’s Church (Madeleine), located close to the historic centre of Bruges and easily accessible by public transportation and by walk. This unique venue offers a calm and inspiring atmosphere, perfectly suited for plenary sessions and high-level discussions.
With its spacious interior and refined architectural character, St Magdalene’s Church provides a distinctive setting that combines heritage and functionality, ensuring a memorable conference experience for all participants.
Venue details:
Date: Saturday, 30 May 2026
Address: Stalijzerstraat 19, 8000 Bruges, Belgium
Phone: +32 (0)50 33 68 18
Website: https://www.yot.be/nl/heilige_magdalenakerk/33
How to Access:
- Nearest bus stop: 502142 Brugge Schaarstraat
- Nearest station: Station Brugge
HW TO ACCESS BRUGES AND TRANSPORT IN BELGIUM:
Bruges is easily accessible by train and well connected to international airports. Brussels Airport offers frequent direct train connections to Bruges, while Brussels South Charleroi Airport and Ostend–Bruges International Airport are also within convenient reach.
Once in Bruges, the city’s compact centre allows all conference venues, hotels, and main attractions to be reached on foot. Whether you enjoy a walk before the conference or relax with a drink on a terrace afterwards, everything is close at hand.
For more details please CHECK HERE
Organising Committee
Melanie BURTSCHER
Schwärzler Rechtsanwälte (SWITZERLAND)
Lore DERDEYN
LYDIAN (BELGIUM)
Sarah KOCKS
Kocks & Partners (BELGIUM)
Ruben MASAR
VISCHER Ltd. (SWITZERLAND)
Sébastien MASSARO
Tiberghien BV (BELGIUM)
Jacopo PIEMONTE
De Berti Jacchia (ITALY)
Sara SAHRANAVARD
Schwärzler Rechtsanwälte (SWITZERLAND)
Michel SEGERS
MVVP (BELGIUM)
Tom SWINNEN
Simont Braun (BELGIUM)
Ester VETS
Claeys & Engels (BELGIUM)
Sponsors
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If you have any questions, contact us on ‘Become a sponsor’ and check for more opportunities.
Personal Protection
The personal data that you communicate to us shall be processed by the International Association Of Young Lawyers (AIJA), with its registered office at Avenue de Tervueren 231, 1150 Brussels, Belgium (Tel: +32 2 347 33 34 - office@aija.com), in accordance with Act No. 78-17 of January 6, 1978 relating to data, files and freedoms and Regulation No. 2016/679 on data protection, as of its entry into force on May 25, 2018.
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.
We shall store your contact information to keep you informed until you ask us to stop. You have the right to access your data and have it corrected if necessary.