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Public International Law

Navigating global legal frameworks with precision and authority.

Public international law is a set of rules, norms, and standards that govern relationships between states and other international actors. It is therefore critical to any cross-border initiatives embarked upon by any public or private sector entity involved in multinational trade, commerce, projects or investments.

In our interconnected world, the importance of understanding international law and the impact of global and regional regulations continues to grow. Our dedicated team has provided expert advice to states and state organs, corporations, and international organisations on the complexities of public international law.

Our expertise includes advising on:

  • Treaties and their interpretation 
  • State responsibility
  • State and diplomatic immunity and privileges
  • Territorial issues, boundaries, and jurisdiction
  • Investor-state arbitrations
  • Law of the sea, including maritime jurisdictional matters
  • Proceedings before other international courts and tribunals

Moreover, we specialise in navigating the challenges posed by international regulations and enforcement, including:

  • Anti-money laundering, anti-corruption, and anti-terrorism regulations
  • Bilateral investment treaties and investment protection
  • Business and human rights, including corporate responsibility
  • Economic sanctions
  • Export controls
  • International environmental law and regulation
  • International trade law
  • Risk assessments for international projects and investments
     
Awards & Recognitions
01
  • Quote
    Siphokazi brings in the right resources and ensures the deadlines are met. She is very practical when approaching issues.
    Chambers & Partners, South Africa, 2025
  • Quote
    They go over and above to ensure that the client's interests are protected.
    Legal 500, South Africa, 2025
  • Quote
    It is an absolute pleasure to work with Siphokazi Kayana and the rest of the team. They are a group of capable, skilled and highly intelligent lawyers. Siphokazi is always available to provide legal guidance.
    Chambers & Partners, South Africa, 2025
  • Quote
    Siphokazi Kayana has incredible talent, is quick on her feet and strategic in her thinking.
    Chambers & Partners, 2026
  • Quote
    Siphokazi Kayana is a true professional. She has sophisticated clients and understands each particular client's needs. She always has the client's needs at the top of her priority.
    Chambers & Partners, 2026
  • Quote
    Siphokazi Kayana handles a broad range of disputes on behalf of clients, such as contractual issues, procurement and data protection-related disputes. Her clients are mainly in the TMT space.
    Chambers & Partners, 2026

Public International Law Insights

The European Union and its Actions against Unsustainable Fishing

06 Aug 2025 13 min read

The European Union and its Actions against Unsustainable Fishing

06 Aug 2025 11 min read

Events

  • South Africa
    21 Apr 2026

    On the Pulse webinar series 2026 - Spring/Summer

  • South Africa
    28 Apr 2026

    IP Insights webinar series 2026

  • South Africa
    02 May 2026

    CMS at INTA 2026

  • South Africa
    05 May 2026

    Joint seminar with CMS and Tannenbaum Helpern - A global perspective on securing, maintaining, and enforcing...

  • South Africa
    28 May 2026

    CMS International Crypto Forum 2026

  • South Africa
    28 May 2026

    Proposed new parental leave provisions under the Labour Law Amendment Bill

Local market knowledge. Global outlook

We provide future-facing legal advice to help your organisation thrive. Combining local market knowledge and a global perspective, and with lawyers in locations worldwide, your organisation benefits from the expertise it needs, even across borders.

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