This is the second work undertaken by the Project, after the launch in January 2024 of the Agreement to Mediate document https://internationalfamilymediation.com/agreement-to-mediate/
Whilst the agreement to mediate is the foundation for the mediation itself, a code of conduct is essential for all mediations. There are many codes for national mediations and national mediation organisations. There are a few for specific international mediations whether distinctive to child abduction or distinctive to groups of countries e.g. the EU. But the essence of this international Family Mediation Project is to encourage greater use of mediation for international families who are otherwise forced to engage in cross-border litigation with attendant higher costs, conflicts of laws, conflicts of outcomes between countries, greater uncertainties, tactical manoeuvrings and many other problems which international families should not have to face at a time of relationship breakdown.
We put this forward for the worldwide family mediation and family justice community to incorporate into their professional practice; it is not intended to override or supersede any national or regional laws or standards or codes of ethics or good practice. We hope that with the opportunity of this code, it will help encourage more use of family mediation and provide a clear and better understanding for international families and mediators of the code for which they will be working.
We invite comments, suggestions, changes and improvements as mediators around the world work with this code and we can update for the benefit of the worldwide family mediation community.
It is anticipated this will be launched northern autumn 2026 and if you would like more details contact us