Looking Around: Should Thailand Promote Mediation Effectiveness and How?

Authors

  • Francis Goh Harry Elias Partnership LLP, Singapore
  • Amnart Tangkiriphimarn Thammasat University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54157/tls.270008

Keywords:

Mediation, Alternative dispute resolution, Thai mediation, Singapore mediation, Singapore Convention on Mediation

Abstract

Mediation as a form of alternative dispute resolution has many advantages compared to other dispute resolution methods, especially those of adjudicatory nature, such as litigation and arbitration. Thailand and Singapore share a similar policy of advocating the practice of mediation. That said, Thailand seems to focus principally on domestic mediation, while Singapore tends to position itself as a mediation hub for international disputes. In terms of the legal framework, both countries have enacted legislation and regulations that endorse, effectuate, and facilitate mediation. In both jurisdictions, these laws and regulations aim to uphold the principle of party autonomy, provide the necessary support, create a mediation-friendly climate, maintain the integrity of the process, and ensure the enforceability of valid mediated settlement agreements. This article, which is intended to be descriptive, discusses some important concepts and characteristics of mediation and explores the legal frameworks of mediation in Thailand and Singapore, as well as both countries’ experiences in dealing with this non-adversarial dispute settlement mechanism.

Author Biography

Francis Goh, Harry Elias Partnership LLP, Singapore

SIMI and IMI Certified Mediator, IMI Certified Mediation Advocate, FCIArb, FSIArb, Partner, Head of International Arbitration and Mediation, and Head of Private Client Advisory at Harry Elias Partnership LLP

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Published

30 December 2023