NEWSLETTER-2020-metin

194 NEWSLETTER 2020 • Logistics; • Forms of recording; • Interpretation; • Procedure to verify identity; • Procedure for taking evidence; • Use of demonstrative exhibits; and • Electronic hearing bundle. Seoul Protocol The Seoul Protocol on Video Conferencing in International Ar- bitrations (“Seoul Protocol”), published on 18.03.2020 by the Korean Commercial Arbitration Board, can be a useful tool for virtual hear- ings. Parties and tribunals can adopt some of the recommendations provided as per their needs and surroundings. The Seoul Protocol is a short document, including sections on venue, documents, witness examination, observers, obtaining docu- ments to which a witness might refer, technical requirements, inter- pretation, technical backup, recording and preparatory arrangements (i.e. seating plan). ISTAC Virtual Hearings Istanbul Arbitration Centre (“ISTAC”) is one of the arbitration institutes continuing its services during the COVID-19 pandemic. In order to provide appropriate tools to parties and tribunals during this period, ISTAC published the Procedures and Principles of Virtual Hearings. These rules and principles include ten provisions and pro- vide that the virtual hearings can be held when requested by a party or when decided by the tribunal. The provisions contain rules on pre- paratory works, attendees of the hearings, procedure of the hearings, document submission, right to a fair trial, witnesses and experts, trans- lators and recording of the hearings. These provisions, which would be applicable to disputes under the ISTAC Rules, can serve as a useful tool for holding hearings and to minimize disruptions.