Astana, Kazakhstan — Ian Duncan Burnett, Baron Burnett of Maldon, appointed as the new Chief Justice of the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) Court in November 2023, brings a rich legal background and formidable expertise, having previously held the position of Lord Chief Justice of England and Wales until earlier this year. Born in Sussex, UK, in 1958, Burnett’s illustrious career began to take shape in his teenage years when he decided to pursue law, a field in which he would later handle several landmark cases and contribute to significant judicial inquiries.
Burnett’s legal journey is distinguished by his involvement in several high-profile cases and public inquiries, including the investigations into the 1987 Kings Cross fire and the inquiries following the tragic deaths of Diana, Princess of Wales, and Dodi Fayed in 1997. His final case as a barrister before ascending to the High Court bench was the Diana inquiry, a role he recalls as intensively scrutinized globally. This experience shaped his views on the judiciary’s responsibility in managing public perception and conducting thorough, impartial investigations.
The transition to Chief Justice of the AIFC Court sees Burnett fill the shoes of his predecessor, Lord Mance, under whom the court aimed to bolster investor confidence and strengthen the rule of law in Kazakhstan. The AIFC Court, along with the International Arbitration Centre (IAC), were established in 2017 under the supervision of Lord Woolf CH. With English common law as its foundation, these institutions attract international businesses by offering a familiar and reliable legal framework.
In his current role, Burnett has emphasized the independence of the AIFC Court, noting its strong backing by statutory laws and the Kazakh government. This independence is crucial in maintaining the court’s integrity and ensuring its decisions are respected both domestically and internationally.
Technological innovation at the AIFC is also a significant focus for Burnett, who is actively involved in integrating artificial intelligence into court operations. A current project under development uses AI for instant translation between English and Russian, aiming to streamline proceedings and reduce operational costs. This initiative is part of a broader move towards remote hearings and digital documentation, making the judicial process more efficient and accessible.
As Chief Justice, Burnett holds a pivotal role in these processes and continues to advocate for careful, clear communication to avoid sensationalism in the judiciary. His experience and leadership are set to guide the AIFC Court as it seeks to reinforce Kazakhstan’s position in the global financial landscape and navigate the evolving challenges of law in the digital age.
Despite his deep familiarity with the UK’s legal system, Burnett admitted that he had much to learn about Kazakhstan and its regional dynamics, expressing enthusiasm for his ongoing learning journey.
Through the use of advanced technology and a commitment to legal excellence, the AIFC Court under Burnett’s leadership is poised to become a key player in international arbitration and justice.
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