30 January 2026

Chiann Bao and Niuscha Bassiri have each been shortlisted by the Global Arbitration Review Awards in the category "Best Speech".

Niuscha has been recognized for her keynote lecture, “Facilitating Settlement in Arbitration: A Shift in Mindset and Institutional Mandate,” delivered at the University of Helsinki for the Finnish Arbitration Association. In her address, she examined the changing role of arbitrators in encouraging settlement within arbitration proceedings, reflecting a wider shift in approach among both users and institutions. Drawing on practical experience, empirical data, and institutional frameworks, she proposed four draft provisions for inclusion in procedural rules or orders, accompanied by commentary, aimed at improving efficiency while fully preserving due process.

Chiann has been recognized for her keynote address, “The Power of Information,” presented at the Swedish Arbitration Days 2025, hosted by the Swedish Arbitration Association. In her speech, she analyzed the pivotal role of information in arbitral decision-making and the responsibility of tribunals to convert data into dependable, decision-relevant knowledge. She discussed the challenges of information overload and advocated for the careful and responsible use of modern technologies to improve efficiency without undermining human judgment or ethical standards. She concluded by underscoring the shared responsibility of the arbitration community to design procedures that protect legitimacy and integrity in an increasingly fragmented information environment.

The GAR Awards honor exceptional contributions to international arbitration, with the Best Speech category recognizing thought leadership that meaningfully advances debate and practice within the field.

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