The AIEN 2023 International Model Joint Operating Agreement

The article examines the JOA’s main provisions, including rights and duties of the operator, operating committee, work programs and budgets, contract awards, greenhouse gas provisions, exclusive operations, default, decommissioning and abandonment, transfers of interests, changes in control, withdrawal, anti-bribery and anti-corruption, economic sanctions, and human rights. It also addresses key issues that parties must consider when drafting and negotiating a joint operating agreement based on this model form.

Special thanks to Robert Tracy, Exxon Mobil, for his contributions to this Article.