IBA Asia Pacific Arbitration Group Symposium: Beyond the comfort zone – rethinking arbitrator appointments, AI and enforcement of awards

25 Aug 2025

Session information

Panel discussion one: Where are the Asia Pacific arbitrators? Breaking barriers in global appointments

Description

The Asia Pacific region generates a significant portion of the world’s arbitration cases, yet arbitrator appointments from the region remain disproportionately low. This panel discussion will explore the systemic barriers that hinder greater representation of Asia-Pacific arbitrators in international arbitration cases. It will also examine institutional policies, party preferences, and practical strategies to ensure a more balanced and diverse arbitrator pool. By challenging long-standing biases and advocating for meaningful change, this discussion seeks to drive greater inclusion in arbitrator selection.

Session / Workshop Chair(s)

Chié Nakahara Nishimura & Asahi, Tokyo, Japan; Co-Chair, Asia Pacific Arbitration Group

Speakers

Alastair Henderson HSF Kramer, Singapore, Singapore
Sae Youn Kim Kim & Chang, Seoul, South Korea
VK Rajah SC Former Attorney General of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
Lucy Reed Arbitration Chambers, New York, New York, USA