First meeting of the Working Group dedicated to the Model Forms for Chapter II of the 1970 Evidence Convention

In March 2025, the Council on General Affairs and Policy (CGAP) approved the establishment of a Working Group (WG) comprised of delegates and other experts from a variety of geographical regions to finalise the Model Forms pertaining to Chapter II of the 1970 Evidence Convention (see Conclusion and Decision No 50 of CGAP 2025).

The first meeting of the WG was held online on 11 July 2025, hosted by the Permanent Bureau (PB). The meeting was attended by 50 delegates and other experts, representing 24 HCCH Members and one Observer, in addition to members of the PB.

During the meeting, participants discussed the scope and content of the draft Model Forms. They also shared their experience with the functioning of Chapter II of the 1970 Evidence Convention and explored ways to enhance the draft forms accordingly. In addition, participants exchanged valuable insights regarding the operation of Articles 15, 16, and 17 of the Convention, which contributed to the progress of the WG’s work.

More information on the 1970 Evidence Convention is available on the Evidence Section of the HCCH website.