Bernhard Maier

   

Partner
Browne Jacobson

BIO

Bernhard has nearly two decades of experience in complex international dispute resolution and public international law, with a particular focus on the natural resources, technology and healthcare sectors. Bernhard is also a visiting professor at King’s College, London, a member of the UK Attorney General’s C Panel for Public International law and regularly sits as an arbitrator in commercial arbitrations.

Bernhard is recommended in legal directories as “a very smart litigation attorney” who is “deeply knowledgeable and technically skilled” (Lexology Index (formerly Who’s Who Legal) 2024). Bernhard’s advice is described as “precise, to the point and very valuable” in the Legal500 directory.

Bernhard has acted for claimant and respondent parties in a wide range of commercial and investment treaty disputes (including under the Energy Charter Treaty and ICSID, UNCITRAL, SIAC, ICC, LCIA, VIAC, DIS and AAA Rules), as well as in related cross-border litigation and enforcement matters.

Recent highlights of Bernhard’s practice include securing a significant damages award on behalf of the founders of leading fintech startup in Asia, advising an oil and gas company in two parallel multi-billion-dollar arbitrations against a Central Asian State and representing a leading mining company in a US$350m UNCITRAL arbitration against a West African State.

Bernhard is qualified to practise in England, Wales and New York, is widely published and regularly speaks at leading industry events.

Session 1
21 October 2025 / 09:30 - 10:30 | Lagoas hall

Europe's Mineral Sector: A Call for Pragmatic Regulation

Addressing concerns about regulation hindering growth. How can policymakers balance sustainability goals with industry competitiveness? An open dialogue between regulators and industry experts for more practical, effective regulations. One of the most prominent pieces of legislation that affects the access of our metals to the European market is the REACH Regulation. This is due to be revised in 2025. Unlike previous regulations and directives, REACH places the burden of proof on companies. To comply with the regulation, companies must identify and adequately manage the risks associated with the substances they manufacture and market in the EU. In particular, they must demonstrate how the substances can be used safely and communicate risk management measures to users.