Introduction

The number of bilateral investment treaties (BITs) has increased substantially throughout the years to reach almost 2,500 agreements at the end of 2005. While much research and analysis has been undertaken with regard to the development, content and effects of such treaties, the issue of the entry into force of BITs has received much less attention. However, without entering into force, BITs cannot fulfill their intended role as legally binding instruments for the promotion and protection of foreign investment. On the basis of the most recent UNCTAD survey of BITs conducted in ...