Force majeure, also known as an "Act of God", is an
unforeseeable event beyond the control of either party to a
contract, that prevents or hinders either side from meeting its
contractual obligations. Translated from French as "superior
force", it can relate to lightning, earthquakes, war,
tsunamis, riots or any natural disaster.
A contract citing force majeure usually outlines a full list of
possible events that could prevent a contract being carried out,
including an Act of God.
So, does coronavirus (COVID-19) fall under a force majeure
clause? It's a powerful and destructive force that's having
a tragic impact across the world, forcing businesses to close down
and smashing entire economies.