The Resource Nationalism Surge
Resource nationalism has intensified in West Africa, Latin America, and Central Asia in 2024-2026. States are revoking mining licences, imposing windfall taxes, and forcing contract renegotiation to capture greater resource rents.
These measures generate both commercial contract disputes and investment treaty claims.
Regional Focus
West Africa has seen significant mining licence actions in Guinea, Mali, and Burkina Faso following political transitions. Latin America continues energy nationalism trends. Central Asia infrastructure investments face regulatory uncertainty.
BIT Protections and ICSID Claims
Foreign investors may bring ICSID claims where resource nationalism measures breach expropriation, FET, or full protection and security standards. Political risk experts establish the political context; legal teams frame treaty arguments.
Instructing Experts
Counsel should instruct country/regional specialists with mining or energy sector knowledge. Experts need access to licence documentation, government communications, and regulatory history.