Force majeure

The term force majeure describes an overpowering force and/or event characterized as external, unpredictable and unavoidable. The term is frequently used in contracts; in general it is included in a common clause that frees both contract parties from liability or obligation in the case of an extraordinary event or circumstance beyond the control of the contract parties (e.g. war, strike, riot, crime or natural disasters such as flooding, earthquake or volcanic eruption). However, the clause of force majeure is not intended to excuse negligence or other breaches of duty, or where non-performance is caused by the usual, natural and predictable consequences of external forces.