On May 7, 2025, the FGV Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence, co-funded by the European Union under the Erasmus+ programme, in partnership with the FGV Centre for Global Law, had the honour of welcoming Dr. Túlio Di Giacomo Toledo for a comprehensive and engaging lecture on “The Permanent Court of Arbitration: Importance and the Role of International Offices.”

Dr. Toledo, Senior Legal Counsel and current Representative of the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in the Republic of Singapore, has led the PCA’s office in the country since 2020. His lecture was divided into three key parts, each offering deep insights into the structure, function, and global reach of the PCA.

In the lecture first part, Dr. Toledo traced the historical development of the PCA, highlighting the treaties and international efforts that led to its creation. This foundation set the stage for a discussion of the Court's evolution and its significance in the field of international dispute resolution. The second part of the lecture focused on the institutional structure of the PCA. Dr. Toledo explained the organization’s internal functioning, including the function of the Administrative Council, the Members of the Court and the International Bureau.

In the final part, Dr. Toledo examined the global presence of the PCA, particularly the legal and the play role of the international offices. He explored the bilateral agreements (host country agreements) that govern the privileges and immunities of PCA offices abroad, providing both legal analysis and practical examples. Of particular note was his discussion of the recent agreement between Brazil and the PCA to establish a permanent office in the country—an exciting and timely development that underscores Brazil’s growing role in international arbitration.

We extend our sincere thanks to Dr. Túlio Di Giacomo Toledo for his enlightening and timely presentation.