What distinguishes international arbitration from international litigation?

Answer 1

Arbitration is private dispute resolution -- and arbiter has power to issue rulings only because the parties have agreed to abide by that decision. International arbitration is easy -- the parties just agree to abide by the arbiter's decisions.

Litigation is through the courts -- the courts have the power to enforce that judgment as a matter of law. International litigation would require a court that has jurisdiction over both parties.

Answer 2

arbitration = negotiation while litigation = investigation