On the morning of July 8, 2025, the University of Economics - University of Danang (DUE) hosted the workshop titled “Mediation Around the World and the Role of Lawyers.” The event was co-organized by DUE in collaboration with the Vietnam International Commercial Mediation Center (VICMC), the Association for Legal Cooperation between Europe and Vietnam (ACJEV), the French Embassy in Vietnam, the International Mediation Committee (CIM), the Comparative Law Society (SLC), the Vietnam Committee of the Paris Bar Association, the Danang Bar Association, and the Danang Lawyers’ Association.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vo Thi Thuy Anh delivered opening remarks

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vo Thi Thuy Anh, Secretary of the Party Committee and Chairwoman of the University Council, emphasized: “Mediation, especially commercial mediation, is not only a method of dispute resolution but also an important field for academic exchange and professional practice. We hope that the multidimensional perspectives shared during this workshop will inspire new ideas to advance mediation practices in Vietnam, foster amicable dispute resolution, and contribute to sustainable development.”

Mr. Tran Tuan Loi, Head of the Danang Bar Association, delivered the keynote opening speech

The workshop was a meaningful professional activity, part of a series of events celebrating the 50th anniversary of the University of Economics - University of Danang. It served as a forum for scholars and legal experts from France, Italy, Europe, and Vietnam to connect and share experiences.

The workshop consisted of two main discussion sessions:

Session 1: Mediation in France, Europe, Africa, and Canada - Practices and recommendations

International experts presented an overview of ethical standards and core skills required to become a mediator, as well as how mediators are trained and regulated. They also discussed initiatives to promote mediation practices in France and across Europe, offering insights into managing mediators, developing codes of ethics, designing framework programs to train lawyers in mediation techniques, and evaluating mediation outcomes in national courts.

Speakers reaffirmed the critical role of lawyers in the mediation process, noting that legal practitioners must possess not only legal expertise but also formal training in mediation methods. This dual competence allows lawyers to support their clients effectively, ensure smooth dispute resolution, and help achieve lasting, mutually beneficial agreements.

Speakers delivered insightful presentations during the workshop

Session 2: Mediation in Vietnam and the Role of Lawyers in Arbitration and Mediation-Based Dispute Resolution

Legal professionals from the Danang Bar Association and the Danang Lawyers’ Association shared experiences from Vietnam, focusing on various mediation contexts such as court-annexed mediation, arbitration-related mediation, community-based mediation, land disputes, labor disputes, and commercial mediation. The session emphasized that lawyers act as representatives and advisors during mediation processes, helping parties understand their legal rights and obligations, assess risks and benefits, and draft legally sound and enforceable mediation agreements.

Delegates engaged in active discussions and knowledge exchange

The workshop not only provided a platform for academic exchange but also enhanced the mediation competencies of Vietnamese lawyers in an increasingly globalized context. It also supported Vietnam’s ambitions to develop an international financial center by promoting transparent, stable, and friendly legal environments through alternative dispute resolution methods.

The Organizing Committee presented flowers to thank the guest speakers

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