LCIA Unveils New Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Initiative 31 May 2024 Responding to valuable stakeholder input and careful consideration, the Board of Directors and Director General of the London Court of International Arbitration (LCIA) proudly declare a reinvigorated commitment to advancing equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) within the arbitration community. To drive progress and embed accountability, the LCIA has appointed its inaugural EDI Officer, Alexander 'Jazzy' Jasiulek. Jazzy brings experience in corporate EDI programme development and diversity change management. His involvement enriches this effort with essential subject matter expertise and a proactive approach. The LCIA’s EDI Initiative rests upon three foundational pillars: 1. Widening Event Participation: Facilitating access and fostering a sense of belonging among diverse audiences at arbitration events. 2. Promoting Best Practices: Elevating methodologies that integrate inclusion as a systematic consideration and make diversity a practical choice. 3. Arbitrator Education & Training: Enhancing competencies and cultivating mindsets that mitigate bias and foster sound decision-making. These pillars define an agenda focused on delivering tangible value to the sector through concrete activities and resources. Integral to this endeavour is the collaboration and knowledge sharing with the Court’s stakeholders. Consequently, the LCIA has formally established an EDI Steering Group, comprising representatives from over 30 leading arbitration firms and chambers. Guiding the EDI Steering Group are a group of ‘Champions’, including Ruth Byrne of King & Spalding, Kate Corby of Baker McKenzie, Thomas Karalis of Ashurst, Claire Morel de Westgaver of BCLP, Shreya Ramesh of Latham & Watkins, and Ben Sanderson, independent arbitration practitioner, and Sarah Vasani of CMS. Together, they collaborate with the LCIA’s EDI Officer to translate the group’s ideas into meaningful deliverables. By advocating for diversity and inclusivity throughout all phases of arbitration, the LCIA aims to model a sustainable approach to driving cultural change within the sector. While this endeavour aspires to foster more representative participation, it hinges upon a commitment to excellence, reinforcing the global arbitration ecosystem and yielding enhanced outcomes in both performance and equality. Lastly, the LCIA is committed to a journey of learning and growth as it navigates this Initiative. Through collaborative efforts improved practices will emerge, ultimately supporting a thriving and enduring sector. To learn more about the LCIA’s EDI Initiative or to see how you can support, contact the LCIA’s EDI Officer, at [email protected].