The Equal Representation for Expert Witnesses (ERE) initiative, launched in 2021, aims to address the gender imbalance in the field of expert witnesses. Inspired by the success of the Equal Representation in Arbitration Pledge (ERA), the ERE Pledge seeks to improve the visibility and representation of women in the role of expert witnesses.
The ERE Pledge, developed with input from professionals in dispute resolution on both sides of the Atlantic, seeks to achieve proportional representation and eventually full parity for women as expert witnesses. It advocates for equal opportunities in hiring, mentoring and promoting women experts. By creating a coalition of supporters and advocates in the world of dispute resolution, the initiative aims to encourage action and advocacy to enhance the opportunities for women in the field.
Co-Founders Kathryn Britten and Isabel Kunsman, both experienced expert witnesses themselves, expressed their motivations behind the initiative. Britten, with almost 30 years of experience, highlighted her concern over the limited number of women appointed as opposing experts, despite witnessing the excellent work produced by capable women in supporting roles. Kunsman emphasised the need to address the underrepresentation of women, particularly as testifying expert witnesses, in higher ranks.
The Academy of Experts, represented on the ERE Global Steering Committee, supports the ERE Pledge as part of its commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion (ED&I). Chairman Derek Nelson acknowledges the talent of women in various professional disciplines and emphasises the Academy's dedication to promoting the development and selection of experts based on merit.
The ERE Pledge aims to overcome the challenges faced by women in the field of expert witnesses globally. It seeks to widen the pool of available expert witnesses and enhance their reputation. By encouraging women to aspire to become expert witnesses in their chosen professions and providing them with better opportunities to achieve their goals, the initiative strives to create a more equitable and diverse landscape in dispute resolution.
Simon Berney-Edwards, Chief Executive Officer of the Expert Witness Institute, expressed delight at signing the ERE Pledge, acknowledging the lack of gender diversity among expert witnesses. He stressed the importance of collaboration with the ERE Global Steering Committee and urged all members of the institute to support the pledge and consider steps to encourage and support more women in becoming expert witnesses.
The ERE Pledge, as a sister pledge to the ERA, aims to improve the representation and visibility of women as expert witnesses. By advocating for equal opportunities, supporting women experts and creating a network of supporters and advocates, the initiative aims to achieve proportional representation and empower women to thrive in the field of dispute resolution. With the support of organisations like the Academy of Experts and the Expert Witness Institute, the ERE Pledge is set to make a significant impact in driving gender equality in the realm of expert witnesses.
