The Independent Film & Television Alliance® (IFTA), the global trade association for independent film and television production, finance, distribution, and sales companies, designated the ICDR the new administering organization for arbitration governed by the newly established Rules for IFTA Arbitrations. Previously, the IFTA Tribunal resolved disputes among these companies. Click here to see the full press release.

The Independent Film & Television Alliance® (IFTA)

IFTA has member companies in 22 countries. Its annual November American Film Market® is the world’s largest motion picture event, with more than 7,000 industry leaders in 70 countries in attendance and generating $1 billion+ in distribution and film financing deals. They also generate the IFTA Model Agreements of industry-wide standards and key definitions for international licensing rights for film and television. 

Panel Members

As part of this new partnership, the ICDR will establish a specialized arbitrator panel for IFTA arbitrations that will incorporate IFTA’s Arbitrator Panel, consisting of attorneys with significant entertainment, intellectual property, copyright, and entertainment law expertise.

Rules for IFTA Arbitrations

The new Rules for IFTA Arbitrations, promulgated by the ICDR and IFTA, are tailored to resolve international disputes in the independent film and television industry. In addition to arbitration services, the new rules allow parties to agree to mediation or emergency interim relief.

A seamless transition for all industry stakeholders

  • The ICDR will administer arbitrations filed under all versions of previous IFTA Rules, including the newly promulgated Rules, effective January 1, 2022. 
  • IFTA will continue to administer cases filed prior to January 1, 2022 until conclusion.

Efficient, economic, fair arbitration proceedings

These rules combine the best, most current international arbitration procedures and entertainment practices from the ICDR and IFTA.

For more information, see IFTA Arbitrations.

Model IFTA Arbitration Clause

Parties can provide for arbitration of future disputes by inserting the following clause into their contracts: 

Any controversy or claim arising out of or relating to this Agreement, or the breach thereof, shall be determined by arbitration administered by the International Centre for Dispute Resolution in accordance with ICDR International Arbitration Rules for IFTA Arbitrations (the “Rules”) effective as of the commencement of the arbitration. 

When writing a dispute resolution clause or agreement, the parties may choose to confer with the ICDR on useful options. Please see the contact information provided in How to File a Case with the ICDR.