Vis maior
force majeure
Vis major, also known as force majeure, is an unforeseen event beyond the control of a party that renders performance of an obligation impossible.
Vis maior is a Latin term used in Dutch law to denote an extraordinary and unforeseen event, such as a natural disaster or governmental intervention, rendering a party unable to perform its contractual obligations.
The term is relevant because it may exclude liability where performance has become reasonably impossible. Parties invoke it to avoid paying damages or incurring other sanctions.
In practice, vis maior is frequently addressed in contracts to clearly define the consequences of such situations and to prevent disputes.
“The carrier successfully invoked force majeure when the port was closed due to strikes.”
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