China has made significant strides in establishing a comprehensive network of people’s mediation organizations that span urban and rural areas, as well as various key sectors. In 2022 alone, these organizations successfully mediated an impressive 14.94 million disputes, according to the Ministry of Justice.
This achievement is the result of concerted efforts by the Chinese government and various departments over the past few years. Since 2018, these entities have issued guidelines and standards aimed at promoting the institutionalization and standardization of people’s mediation work.
At present, China boasts an impressive roster of 3.18 million people’s mediators, of which 412,000 are full-time professionals. This diverse pool of mediators forms the backbone of China’s mediation work system, which integrates various approaches such as people’s mediation, administrative mediation, industry-specific professional mediation, and judicial mediation.
The synergy between these mediation modalities ensures a well-rounded and effective approach to dispute resolution, enhancing access to justice for citizens and businesses alike.
To further enhance the efficacy of dispute resolution, the Ministry of Justice has been proactive in promoting professional mediation in critical areas, including healthcare, road traffic, labor disputes, and property management. Moreover, the scope of mediation services has expanded to encompass areas such as the internet, intellectual property rights, finance, insurance, and consumer tourism.
One noteworthy achievement is the establishment of 48,000 industry-specific people’s mediation organizations across the country. These specialized entities play a crucial role in addressing disputes in specific sectors, adding depth to China’s mediation ecosystem.
Additionally, China has seen the emergence of international commercial mediation organizations in cities like Shanghai, Guangdong, and Hainan. These international mediation bodies contribute to creating a more market-oriented, law-based, and internationally attuned business environment.
China’s accomplishments in the realm of mediation underscore its commitment to providing efficient and accessible dispute resolution mechanisms. The proliferation of mediation networks not only benefits its citizens but also contributes to fostering a favorable environment for both domestic and international businesses to thrive. By continuing to refine and expand its mediation infrastructure, China demonstrates its dedication to promoting justice and stability in a rapidly evolving society.