8 March 2024 SPECIAL MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR OF ISTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS: INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY ON MARCH 8TH
Dear Members of the Istanbul Arbitration Association,
I extend my warmest greetings to you on the occasion of March 8th, International Women’s Day. On this special day, I send this message to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of women around the world and to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to gender equality.
International Women’s Day is more than just a date marked on the calendar; it is also a call to action for steps towards creating a fairer world. This day emphasizes the significant roles we all play -from young students to experienced professionals, from community leaders to business representatives- in the struggle for gender equality and social justice. It is also an opportunity to recognize and honor the social, economic, cultural, and political successes of women. Amplifying women’s voices and sharing their stories is crucial for our progress towards gender equality.
As the Istanbul Arbitration Association, we value and recognize women’s significant contributions in arbitration, including their leadership in high-profile cases, their innovative approaches to resolving disputes, and their efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity within the profession. They’re assuming leading roles, challenging norms, and reshaping the field, enriching arbitration with diverse perspectives and expertise. Their presence not only enhances the current landscape but also inspires future generations, ensuring more comprehensive and equitable outcomes.
Today, we sincerely celebrate the contributions of women, who are the cornerstones of society. Women take on critical roles in every area, from family life to the business world, from the arts to science, playing a central role in the advancement of our society.
However, we acknowledge that there is still much work to be done to achieve gender equality and social justice. Hence, today, we reaffirm our commitment to these values. Let us strengthen our dedication to gender equality in arbitration, ensure that women’s voices are more prominently heard in our sector, and reinforce our determination for equality and justice across society.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, the Istanbul Arbitration Association pays tribute to the legacy and vision of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, a pioneering leader in women’s rights. The power and contributions of women will be effective for the future of Türkiye and the world. Empowering them leads to greater societal achievements and progress. International Women’s Day emphasizes that this progress should continue not just for one day, but every day. The under-representation of women in arbitration is indicative of the gender imbalance and unequal opportunities within the sector, and it is our collective responsibility to change this status quo.
As esteemed members of our association, I am confident that you will support the rights, achievements, and potential of women on this meaningful day. Together, let us continue our efforts to increase women’s representation in international arbitration, promote equality, and ensure justice. Let us remember that empowering women and ensuring their equal representation enable us to build a more just and balanced future, not only in the field of arbitration but in all social structures. International Women’s Day reminds us to act with this awareness and support the accomplishments and contributions of women.
Kind regards,
Bennar Aydoğdu
Chair of Istanbul Arbitration Association Board of Directors