Inaugural Global Mediation Summit Strengthens Hong Kong’s Position as a Leading Mediation Hub
HONG KONG SAR – The Global Mediation Summit, the first international conference organized by the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) since its establishment in Hong Kong last October, took place on May 8, 2026, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. This landmark event, sponsored by the Department of Justice (DoJ) and the Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy, attracted over 400 leaders, policymakers, and distinguished professionals from 48 countries and regions.
Key Themes and Discussions
Participants engaged in discussions on critical topics such as cross-cultural international mediation, financial and investment dispute mediation, and the development of a global mediation ecosystem. John Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), emphasized Hong Kong’s longstanding commitment to mediation during his address at the summit.
“Hong Kong is committed to becoming a global mediation capital. And we are well-positioned to do so,” Mr. Lee stated. He highlighted that under the “one country, two systems” framework, Hong Kong serves as a vibrant hub for international finance, shipping, and trade, benefiting from strong national support while maintaining extensive international connectivity.
Hong Kong’s Unique Position
Mr. Lee noted that Hong Kong is the only common law jurisdiction in China, which enhances its legal professionals’ reputation for professionalism and integrity. He asserted that as the headquarters of IOMed, Hong Kong is at the forefront of global dispute resolution.
Paul Lam, Secretary for Justice of the HKSAR, reiterated the government’s ongoing support for IOMed. He outlined several initiatives, including the maintenance of the IOMed headquarters and the secondment of Hong Kong legal professionals to the IOMed Secretariat. Since 2023, the DoJ has seconded four counsel to assist in establishing IOMed. Additionally, the government aims to promote the use of IOMed mediation by incorporating mediation clauses into relevant international agreements.
“Hong Kong is well recognized as a leading international legal and dispute resolution services center,” Mr. Lam remarked. He referenced the National 15th Five-Year Plan, which mandates that Hong Kong strengthen its status in this domain.
Growth of IOMed
Since its inauguration, the number of signatory states to IOMed has increased from 37 to 41, while the number of contracting states has risen from eight to 13. Professor Teresa Cheng, Secretary-General of IOMed, highlighted the organization’s unique role as the first inter-governmental international body established by a convention to promote mediation exclusively.
“IOMed fills an institutional gap and presents mediation as a viable alternative to resolving international disputes alongside litigation and arbitration,” Professor Cheng stated during her welcome remarks at the summit.
Recent Developments in Mediation
Professor Cheng shared two significant developments regarding IOMed. The first was the successful resolution of a maritime dispute through mediation administered by IOMed at its Hong Kong headquarters earlier in May. This case marked a milestone as the first international maritime dispute involving a charterparty chain referred to IOMed for mediation.
The second development involves the establishment of a dedicated special panel of mediators for commodities market disputes under the IOMed framework. This initiative aligns with Hong Kong’s goal to further develop its commodities market and stipulate the use of IOMed mediation in related contracts and policies.
Mediation Week 2026
The Global Mediation Summit concluded the Mediation Week 2026, themed “Mediate First: An Attempt of Mediation, Harvests Abundant Harmony.” This week-long event aimed to promote mediation as a friendly means of resolving disputes and conflicts, fostering a more harmonious community.
“Our commitment to mediation, locally and globally, is clear in the five-day Mediation Week program that ends today with this Summit,” Mr. Lee remarked. He noted that the events throughout the week focused on various disputes, including those related to schools, sports, neighborhoods, and the elderly, with the goal of applying mediation skills to achieve peaceful resolutions.
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Published on 2026-05-08 18:16:00 • By the Editorial Desk
