We are pleased to announce the successful completion of the 2nd International Summer School on Arbitration co-organized by the Turkish Arbitration Academy (TAA).
The program began on Monday morning with an insightful opening lecture that set the tone for an enriching learning experience. Prof. Dr. Ali Yesilirmak warmly welcomed the participants and outlined the objectives of the program.
His later lectures covered critical topics such as the "International Dispute Settlement and Legal Concept of Arbitration," "Historical Development of Arbitration," and the "Regulatory Framework of Arbitration." These sessions provided a comprehensive overview and a strong foundation in the field of arbitration. In the next session, Dr. Dogan Gultutan delivered valuable insights on "Confidentiality and Transparency," bridging the gap between theory and practice.
The first day concluded with a practical session on the "Establishment and Organization of the Arbitral Tribunal," ensuring participants gained a holistic understanding of the arbitration process.
The second day commenced with an informative session by Dr. Ömer Faruk Kafalı on the "Powers, Duties, and Jurisdiction of the Arbitral Tribunal." This session laid the groundwork for understanding the fundamental roles and responsibilities of the arbitral tribunal. This was followed by a thought-provoking lecture on "Provisional Measures" delivered by Prof. Dr. Ali Yesilirmak, offering participants a thorough understanding of the provisional measures that can be implemented to preserve assets and evidence.
The third session, "Expedited and Emergency Arbitration," was co-conducted by Dr. Dogan Gultutan and Dr. Can EKEN. This lecture provided valuable insights into the accelerated processes within arbitration, crucial for urgent disputes. Subsequently, the same speakers delivered a detailed lecture on "Applicable Procedural Law, State Courts, and Assistance." This session elucidated the interplay between arbitral proceedings and the support provided by state courts.
The day concluded with an engaging lecture by Mr. Okan Demirkan from Kolcuoglu Demirkan Kocakli Attorneys at Law on "Arbitration Agreements and Multiparty-Arbitration". His expertise provided participants with a practical understanding of drafting and enforcing arbitration agreements.
The third day began with an insightful presentation by Attorney Mr Turgut Aycan Özcan, Managing Partner from Özcan Legal. Mr Özcan's comprehensive sessions covered two critical aspects of arbitration. The first part focused on the meticulous preparation for hearings, including pre-hearing conferences, the chronology of key events, preparation of hearing bundles, crafting opening statements, and preparing fact and expert witnesses for cross-examination. He also provided guidance on formulating effective cross-examination questions. In the second part, Mr Özcan delved into the intricacies of arbitration hearings. He covered the essential components of the hearing process, including delivering opening statements, conducting direct and cross-examinations, redirect examinations, and presenting both oral and written closing arguments. To enhance practical understanding, Mr Özcan conducted a hands-on session on examination techniques.
The afternoon sessions were led by Dr Ömer Faruk Kafalı who focused on the topics of arbitration awards and costs. Dr Kafali's lectures provided detailed insights into the various types of awards and decisions that arbitral tribunals render, as well as a comprehensive analysis of the costs typically encountered in arbitration proceedings.
The fourth day commenced with an enlightening presentation by Dr. Can EKEN on the "Set-Aside of Arbitral Awards." Dr. Eken thoroughly examined the concept of setting aside arbitral awards, elaborating on the relevant procedures and legal intricacies. His session equipped participants with a solid understanding of this pivotal aspect of arbitration.
In the afternoon, Attorney Toghrul Guluzada took the stage to lead an in-depth session on the "Recognition and Enforcement of Arbitral Awards." Mr. Guluzada shed light on the complexities of ensuring that arbitral awards are recognized and enforced across different jurisdictions, offering valuable insights into the challenges and best practices in this field. He focused on the New York Convention and gave many case law examples.
The fifth and final day of the 2nd International Summer School on Arbitration has successfully concluded, wrapping up a week of intensive learning and insightful discussions on various facets of arbitration. The day began with a comprehensive presentation by Assoc. Prof. Dr. A. Eda Manav Özdemir on "Investment Arbitration." Dr. Özdemir explored both the substantive and procedural aspects of investment arbitration, providing participants with a thorough understanding of this specialized area.
In the afternoon, Assist. Prof. Dr. Najiba Mustafayeva led an engaging session on "State-State Arbitration." Building on the previous sessions focused on commercial and investment arbitration, Dr. Mustafayeva analyzed the workings of state-state arbitration and dispute resolution in general, offering a broader perspective on the field. The day, and the program, concluded with a closing ceremony where successful participants were awarded their certificates, celebrating their dedication and hard work throughout the summer school.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our esteemed speakers and enthusiastic participants for making this program a resounding success. As we close this chapter, we look forward to the continued journey of knowledge and collaboration in the field of arbitration.
