Our rapidly developing global society makes private international law a field of increasing importance. Although some harmonization of rules has taken place, the necessary follow-up - rapid implementation and a uniform application of the rules - has been lacking. Moreover, harmonization has occurred in only a limited number of areas. For the most part, separate legal systems remain each with its own individual solutions, as a result of which conflicts of law exist in many areas. International procedural law issues also play an important role in this context. Published by Kluwer Law International in co-operation with the Swiss Institute of Comparative Law, this English-language publication, now in its second year, provides analysis and information on private international law developments worldwide. The editors commission articles concerning the most significant trends in this field. The Yearbook also devotes attention to the important work and research carried out in the context of the Hague Conference, The Hague Academy, UNCITRAL, and UNIDROIT. The authority of its editors and the lasting nature of the works included make the Yearbook an integral addition to the libraries of international law scholars and practitioners. The editors are supported by an international advisory board composed of personalities the field of international law.