Editing Mediation (section)

== Mediation in Ukraine ==

Mediation in Ukraine has evolved significantly since the country's independence in 1991. Initially, mediation practices were informal and lacked a standardized legal framework. The adoption of the Law of Ukraine "On Mediation" in November 2021 marked a pivotal moment, formally recognizing mediation as an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) method within the Ukrainian legal system. This legislation defines mediation, establishes its principles, outlines the scope of its application, and sets forth requirements for mediators, including their rights and obligations.<ref name="AJEE">[https://ajee-journal.com/law-of-ukraine-on-mediation-main-achievements-and-further-steps-of-developing-mediation-in-ukraine AJEE Journal, 2022]</ref>

The law permits mediation across various legal domains, such as civil, commercial, labor, administrative, and certain criminal matters at any stage of judicial or arbitration proceedings.<ref name="Kluwer">[https://arbitrationblog.kluwerarbitration.com/2022/03/06/ukrainian-mediation-law-was-adopted-and-entered-into-force-will-arbitration-benefit Kluwer Arbitration Blog, 2022]</ref> It also aligns with European standards for access to justice, as stipulated in Article 6 of the European Convention on Human Rights.<ref name="AJEE" />

Professional organizations have played a crucial role in advancing mediation in Ukraine. The National Association of Mediators of Ukraine (NAMU), established in 2014, serves as a central body for mediators, promoting best practices and professional development.<ref name="CivilMplus">[https://civilmplus.org/en/actors/national-association-of-mediators-of-ukraine CivilMplus]</ref> Additionally, the Ukrainian Mediation Academy focuses on training and certifying mediators.<ref name="Consent">[https://en.mediation.ua/consent Mediation.ua]</ref>

The ongoing conflict in Eastern Ukraine has underscored the importance of mediation in addressing both interpersonal and broader societal disputes. Organizations like the League of Mediators of Ukraine have been instrumental in providing mediation services, particularly in family disputes exacerbated by the war.<ref name="Mediate">[https://mediate.com/ukraine Mediate.com]</ref> International collaborations have also emerged; for instance, Qatar has facilitated humanitarian exchanges between Ukraine and Russia, including the return of children to their families.<ref name="Reuters">[https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/russia-ukraine-return-children-families-after-mediation-by-qatar-2024-11-28 Reuters, 2024]</ref>

Despite these advancements, challenges persist. Public awareness of mediation remains limited, and there is a need for increased institutional support and integration of mediation into the broader justice system.<ref name="PravoJustice">[https://www.pravojustice.eu/post/mediaciya-v-ukrayini-na-porozi-novogo-etapu-rozvitku-en PravoJustice, 2023]</ref>