The Process of Mediation in Finland: A Special Reference to the Question “How to get Cases for Mediation?”

Abstract

In this paper I will give a brief summary of the developing phase and features of the mediation projects in Finland and address the question of how to get cases for mediation in cooperation with different officials, especially with the police and the prosecutor. I will point out that co-operation with officials has been vital for mediation in Finland. I will also address the question of the so-called “net-widening” effect and point out that although there are standpoints pro and contra the concept, co-operation with officials is defensible.