I am presently enrolled in a course on Private International Law. During my studies, I have acquired knowledge regarding an international commercial practice known as demurrage. This concept raises inquiries pertaining to the applicability of force majeure events—specifically, natural disasters, coups d'état, or armed conflicts—within the context of the penalty period associated with such demurrage. It is to be noted that, in civil matters, force majeure events, as a general principle, shall not be deemed a valid justification for excusing a party from fulfilling its contractual obligations. Does this penalty clause contravene fundamental principles of contract law as applicable to civil matters in general?