The newly established arbitral institution Abu Dhabi International Arbitration Centre (arbitrateAD), based in Abu Dhabi, has recently signed the Equal Representation in Arbitration (ERA) Pledge, reaffirming its commitment to fostering diversity within its ranks. From its inception, arbitrateAD has actively considered diverse candidates for arbitrator appointments, aligning closely with the Pledge’s principles. By formally signing the ERA Pledge, arbitrateAD joins other prominent regional institutions such as the Dubai International Arbitration Centre (DIAC) and the Saudi Center for Commercial Arbitration (SCCA), further advancing the mission of promoting balanced representation in the arbitration field in the Middle East.
ArbitrateAD intends to publish its diversity statistics in the coming years, specifically regarding gender representation in its appointments. This move signals a proactive approach to transparency and accountability, emphasizing the institution’s dedication to the Pledge’s goals. DIAC’s recently published 2023 statistics revealed that 47% of arbitrator appointments made by the institution itself were women, although appointments by parties and co-arbitrators showed lower gender diversity—highlighting a key focus area for the Pledge in the coming years.
The ERA Pledge is co-chaired in the Middle East by Antonia Birt, partner at Reed Smith, and Professor Nayla Comair-Obeid, founding partner of Obeid & Partners, who are driving the Pledge’s initiatives regionally. Antonia facilitated arbitrateAD’s recent signing, with the institution represented by its Executive Director, Kristin Campbell-Wilson.
As more institutions join the Pledge, the arbitration community in the region continues to make strides toward achieving equal representation, fostering a more inclusive and representative arbitration landscape.
Submitted by ArbitralWomen member and Equal Representation in Arbitration Pledge Middle East Co-Chair, Antonia Birt.