Criminal and Regulatory Litigator Ruth Barber from Tees has returned from India after attending the first-ever India International Disputes Week (IIDW) 2026, a five-day event bringing together legal professionals from around the world. The event was organised by Sikhs in Law alongside Master Baldip Singh of the Inner Temple and attracted a diverse international delegation.
Held between 7–11 March, the programme combined panel discussions, networking and site visits across Amritsar, Chandigarh, Delhi and Lucknow. It brought together judges, senior advocates, law firms, in-house counsel and academics to explore how dispute resolution is evolving globally, with a focus on arbitration, litigation, mediation and cross-border commercial disputes.
A key moment during the week was the launch of the Chandigarh International Arbitration Centre, an initiative aimed at strengthening India’s arbitration framework and supporting its growing role in international dispute resolution.
Ruth, who specialises in criminal and regulatory law, attended as part of a global group of invited practitioners. Over the course of the week, she connected with lawyers from a wide range of jurisdictions, building relationships and gaining insight into how different legal systems approach complex disputes.
Alongside the formal sessions, the programme also included the IIDW Sports League, designed to encourage more informal networking through badminton, horse-riding and cricket and including a visit to a cricket stadium. The visit coincided with India’s win against New Zealand in the T20 cricket world cup and it was exciting to be a part of the celebrations.
A highlight of the week was the International Women’s Day Walkathon, where Ruth said she was particularly struck by the strong presence of women across both the legal profession and judiciary, and the clear commitment to improving representation. A video of the event can be viewed on the India International Disputes Week LinkedIn page. Coverage of the group’s visit to the High Court at Lucknow also appeared in the Hindustan Times, one of India’s largest English-language newspapers.
Reflecting on the experience, Ruth said:
“India International Disputes Week was a brilliant opportunity to meet and learn from lawyers across the world. There was a real mix of perspectives on how international disputes are developing, particularly in arbitration and cross-border enforcement.
“It was also a great way to build relationships in a more relaxed setting. The social activities definitely helped with that—although the heat took a bit of getting used to.”
The visit comes at a time of growing economic ties between the UK and India, following the recent trade agreement between the two countries. Ruth believes this will lead to increased demand for cross-border legal expertise.
“As trade between the UK and India continues to grow, more businesses will be navigating new regulatory environments and compliance challenges. It was really valuable to hear directly from practitioners working within the Indian market and to share perspectives,” she added.
Ruth is a specialist criminal and regulatory lawyer at Tees Law, with over 25 years’ experience advising and defending companies, directors, professionals and individuals facing investigation and prosecution. She regularly supports organisations dealing with complex regulatory frameworks, including those operating internationally.
