Coassemble: Diversity and inclusion training for IBA Officers

Tuesday 7 May 2024

At the International Bar Association (IBA), we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse environment within the legal profession. Through our Diversity & Inclusion Council, we strive to promote equal participation and eliminate discrimination and bias within our organisation.

We offer comprehensive training modules, developed by Symmetra, a leading DEI consultancy, aimed at enhancing awareness and understanding of key diversity and inclusion concepts among our officers.

Through interactive exercises and real-world examples, officers will learn the concept of unconscious bias, how to recognise and dismantle barriers to inclusion, and practical steps to foster inclusion in everyday interactions. These modules outline the expectations for IBA Officers to complete training and to equip with the necessary tools and insights to cultivate a culture of inclusivity within the legal profession.

Training modules


Disability Inclusion module

Disability inclusion image

Course Overview: This module focuses on addressing unconscious bias towards individuals with disabilities and fostering workplace inclusivity.

Learning outcomes:
  • Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the diverse range of disabilities and the unique challenges individuals with disabilities face in the workplace
  • Through case studies and scenario-based learning
  • Officers will learn to recognise and dismantle barriers to inclusion, whether they be physical, social, or attitudinal
  • They will also explore best practices for creating accessible environments and fostering a culture of respect and accommodation for all

Everyday Inclusion module

Everyday inclusion image

Course Overview: This module highlights practical steps to foster inclusion in everyday interactions and create a welcoming environment for people of diverse backgrounds.

Learning outcomes:

  • Participants will assess their level of inclusiveness, understand five principles of everyday inclusive behavior, and apply practical strategies to cultivate an inclusive culture
  • From using inclusive language to actively listening to diverse perspectives, participants will explore simple yet powerful ways to create a culture of belonging for all

Fostering Racial Inclusion

Fostering racial inclusion image

Course Overview: This module emphasises creating a workplace environment where people of all racial backgrounds feel valued, respected, and have equal opportunities for success.

Learning outcomes:

  • Participants will learn the impact of racial discrimination
  • Engage in constructive conversations about race
  • Identify and address microaggressions

Unconscious Bias module

Unconscious bias image

Course Overview: This module explores the concept of unconscious bias, which are automatic social stereotypes formed without awareness, and their impact on workplace collaboration.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Participants will learn to define and explain unconscious bias
  • Recognise its effects on workplace decisions
  • Identify common types of bias, and apply strategies to disrupt unconscious bias

By raising awareness and fostering a culture of introspection, this module empowers officers to make more objective and inclusive decisions.


Upon Completion

Upon completing the training modules, IBA Officers will develop the skills and confidence to drive meaningful change:

  • Heighten awareness of unconscious biases.
  • Understand diversity and inclusion key concepts.
  • Identify and address barriers to inclusion
  • Enhance communication skills for constructive dialogue.
  • Learn strategies for allyship and advocacy.
  • Apply practical inclusion tactics in daily interactions.
  • Commit to ongoing diversity and inclusion efforts.