The United Nations’ Development Program (UNDP) and the European Union (EU) are promoting the benefits of mediation and other forms of alternative dispute resolution for the country of Georgia. Why mediation can be an effective means of dispute resolution was discussed at the meeting that was held recently at the Radisson BluIveria Hotel in Tbilisi.

The meeting was attended by several high-ranking officials who sang the praises of the mediation process including the Minister of Justice, Thea Tsulukiani,the Deputy Head of Cooperation Section at the Delegation of the European Union to Georgia, CatalinGherman, the UNDP head in Georgia, Louise Vuiton.

According to Tsulukiani, mediation is part of Georgia’s heritage and culture. It has been used for centuries to resolve issues that have arisen in the country. One speaker also shared information about how the mountain people in the country have always used mediators to assist when conflict has arisen.

Tsulukiani went on to explain to those attending the meeting that mediation is a fair and faster way to achieve justice and told them that the process ensures a safer business environment. Not only it is that good for those doing business in the country, but also it makes it a more attractive option for foreign investors.

Other speakers touted the process of mediation, as well as other alternative forms of dispute resolution. Gherman called ADR “a win-win situation for people and companies as well as for the judiciary.” She went on to explain, “People and investors need to have trust and to feel that they are in a safe and predictable business environment in Georgia.”

The ultimate goal of the meeting was to explain the mediation process and its benefits to the people in attendance and to further the country’s objective of becoming the mediation center in the region.