As a proud sponsor of Norway Chess, EY is actively engaged in promoting gender equality in the world of chess. In connection with this year’s tournament, Arbab Dar, Country Managing Partner at EY Norway, shares his reflections on why supporting women in chess is essential – and how the business world can help drive change.

Read the full interview below:

Checkmate to Gender Inequality?

Photo: CEO and Country Managing Partner for EY Norway, Arbab Dar

Arbab Dar, Country Managing Partner at EY Norway, takes a clear stand on the role of chess in the fight for gender equality.

“You might think that chess, with its focus on skill and intellect, would be one of the most inclusive sports in the world. A game where everyone, regardless of background, can compete on equal terms. Unfortunately, that’s not the case,” says Dar.

This year, for the second time, Norway Chess is hosting a women’s tournament with a prize fund equal to that of the open tournament. EY is sponsoring the prize fund for the women’s tournament.

Photo: Norway Chess Women 2025 Line-up. Credits: Ju, Lei, Humpy, Anna, Vaishali: Norway Chess / Stev Bonhage, Sara: FIDE / Maria Emelianova

“We were incredibly proud last year to help establish the prize fund for the women’s event. It was called a gamechanger – not just for the chess world, but for gender equality as a whole,” Dar says, adding:

“One concern last year was that this would be a one-off. Thankfully, it hasn’t turned out that way – and I’m very glad to see that.”

Dar points out that only 2–3% of international chess grandmasters are women, reflecting a broader societal challenge.

“Sport is one of the areas where gender equality lags the most. The dropout rate among girls in youth sports is significant, and we have a responsibility to create better conditions for more girls and women to pursue their ambitions,” he says.

“To do that, we need strong role models and arenas where they can thrive,” he adds.

Dar emphasizes that the business community must play a more active role in advancing equality.

“We in the business sector can’t sit back and wait for change to happen – we must be part of making it happen. That means supporting initiatives that promote female athletes and chess players. Last year, we said, ‘There is a queen on every board – let’s add more to the game.’ We’re proud to continue that mission,” Dar concludes.