Structure

The PCA has a three-part organizational structure consisting of an Administrative Council that oversees its policies and budgets, a panel of independent potential arbitrators known as the Members of the Court, and its Secretariat, known as the International Bureau, headed by the Secretary-General.

As part of its environmental dispute resolution services, the PCA maintains a list of arbitrators who specialize in disputes relating to the environment and natural resources, as well as a list of scientific and technical experts who may be appointed as expert witnesses under the PCA’s Environmental Rules. The PCA also maintains lists of arbitrators and experts who specialize in disputes relating to outer space activities in connection with its Rules for Arbitration of Disputes Relating to Outer Space Activities.

Administrative Council

Contracting Parties' diplomatic representatives accredited to The Netherlands comprise the Administrative Council, under the chairmanship of the Netherlands Minister for Foreign Affairs. This body, in consultation with the Secretary-General, shapes the policy of the organization.

International Bureau

The PCA’s Secretariat - the International Bureau - consists of an experienced team of legal and administrative staff of various nationalities.

Members of the Court

Members of the Court are potential arbitrators appointed by the PCA's Contracting Parties. Each Contracting Party is entitled to nominate up to four persons of “known competency in questions of international law, of the highest moral reputation and disposed to accept the duties of arbitrators” as “Members of the Court.”