Mediation in Belgium: A long and winding road

Abstract

This chapter offers a comprehensive overview of mediation in Belgium. The 2005 Belgian Mediation Act is the leitmotif. First, attention is paid to the mediation agreement and the voluntariness of the mediation process. Second, the accreditation of mediators is discussed and the role the Belgian Federal Mediation Commission plays in that regard. Third, the important issue of confidentiality in the mediation process is analysed. Chaps. 5-7 focus on voluntary (or out-of-court) mediation, including the role of ODR (online dispute resolution), and judicial (or court-connected) mediation. Brief attention is paid to the costs of mediation and legal aid (Chap. 8). The chapter ends with some future perspectives on mediation in Belgium.