Between 18 and 22 August 2025, the Durham International Dispute Resolution Institute (DIDRI) proudly hosted the Durham Summer Programme on International Arbitration, welcoming more than 60 students from eight countries and regions. Participants came from many of the world’s leading institutions, including Renmin University of China, Tongji University, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Penn State University, and Chuo University, among others.

Durham International Dispute Resolution Institute (DIDRI) was pleased to host a special book launch event for Dr Can Eken’s “Third-Party Funding (TPF) in Investment Arbitration”. TPF presents complex procedural and ethical challenges, which some jurisdictions and arbitration centres are now addressing through evolving laws and rules. With the development of international commercial and investment arbitration, interesting cases have also arisen over the years.

Lei has been appointed as a member of the PRC Supreme People's Court's International Commercial Expert Committee.

The fourth international Judicial Roundtable at the end of April 2024 in Durham explored topics within Technology and Climate Change, with judges and leading policymakers from around the world.