On 23 June 2022 the European Commission appointed Lucy Keane FCIArb to its pool of individuals suitable for appointment as Arbitrator in bilateral trade disputes. 

The EU's bilateral trade and investment agreements provide for state-to-state dispute settlement to ensure that the rights and obligations provided for in EU Free Trade Agreements are respected. This includes the Trade and Cooperation Agreement concluded between the EU and the UK (the "Brexit" Agreement). 

The European Commission is responsible for representing the EU in any dispute settlement procedures. In December 2020, the Commission published a call for applications for the position of arbitrator. An independent selection panel of experienced international judges and academics, nominated by the European Parliament, the Council, Member States and the Commission, rigorously assessed each applicant's individual suitability for appointment. 

Lucy's inclusion on the list gives her the opportunity to be appointed as arbitrator in specific cases or on pre-agreed rosters under relevant bilateral trade agreements with third countries.