Gujarat High Court calls for improved representation of women and technical experts in arbitration appointments, noting current female participation at 29.97%.
Gujarat HC Advocates for Diversity in Arbitration Appointments
The Gujarat High Court has issued advisory directions urging parties, counsels, and arbitration institutions to enhance the representation of women and technical experts in arbitration appointments. The court observed that women currently constitute only 29.97% of arbitrators in cases before it, falling short of equitable participation standards.
The Court emphasized that diverse appointments contribute to broader perspectives and improved institutional legitimacy in arbitration. It recommended institutional frameworks to maintain gender-balanced panels and promote technically qualified individuals, especially in sector-specific disputes involving engineering, finance, or intellectual property.
Impact on Arbitration Practice
The directive, though non-binding, sets a precedent for inclusive institutional arbitration. Practitioners are advised to proactively consider diversity in nominee selections and encourage arbitration centers to adopt transparency metrics. This aligns with global best practices and may influence future amendments to arbitration policy and institutional rules in India.
