Amsterdam & Partners LLP

Amsterdam & Partners LLP is a leading international law firm renowned for its expertise in politically sensitive, high-stakes, and crisis-driven legal disputes. The firm's mission is to navigate the complexities of a changing global landscape, safeguard vital client interests, and provide strategic counsel that combines local insight with a global perspective. Headquartered in London, UK, the firm also maintains an office in Washington D.C. [2, 3, 4, 6, 11, 19]

The firm's practice areas are diverse, encompassing sovereign advisory, corporate disputes in frontier markets, human rights and asylum, criminal defense, extradition and sanctions, international arbitration, and media and reputation management [5, 6]. Amsterdam & Partners LLP is distinguished by its integrated approach, combining legal expertise with political intelligence and strategic advocacy to serve sovereign states, political leaders, multinational corporations, and high-net-worth individuals [6, 7].

Founded and managed by Robert Amsterdam, the firm is frequently engaged in prominent international cases [2, 7]. Recent activities include representing the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in a dispute with the Ukrainian Government [2], challenging Spain's tax agency (AEAT) over alleged predatory practices [10, 15], and publishing a report in May 2026 accusing the European Union of interfering in Armenia's democratic process [13, 17]. The firm is recognized for its commitment to human rights advocacy [7].

Latest updates

EU's Armenia Intervention Draws International Law Challenge

Event summary

  • Amsterdam & Partners LLP, acting as counsel for Armenian opposition leader Samvel Karapetyan, released a report accusing the EU of breaching international law through its intervention in Armenia’s upcoming parliamentary election.
  • The report alleges the EU’s actions, including €300 million in financial support, a Hybrid Rapid Response Team, and a summit of 44 European leaders, constitute indirect electoral interference.
  • Amsterdam & Partners’ report highlights concerns over the EU’s branding of Armenian opposition as Russian propaganda and a lack of transparency regarding its definition of 'foreign interference'.
  • The report accuses the EU of applying double standards by overlooking democratic abuses in Armenia while criticizing Hungary.
  • Armenia’s parliamentary election is scheduled for June 7th, with Pashinyan’s ruling party facing a potential challenge.

The big picture

This situation underscores the growing tension between international organizations' desire to promote democracy and the potential for their actions to be perceived as interference in sovereign nations' affairs. The case highlights the risks of selective engagement and the importance of transparency and accountability in foreign policy. Amsterdam & Partners' involvement signals a trend of legal challenges to international bodies' actions, potentially setting a precedent for future disputes.

What we're watching

Governance Dynamics
The EU’s response to these allegations will likely shape its future engagement with Armenia and other nations facing democratic backsliding, potentially leading to stricter conditionality on aid.
Regulatory Headwinds
Increased scrutiny from international bodies like the OSCE could force the EU to re-evaluate its approach to election support and risk assessments in politically sensitive regions.
Execution Risk
The Armenian opposition’s ability to capitalize on this controversy and challenge Pashinyan’s government will depend on the EU’s actions and the broader political landscape within Armenia.
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