Mediation Activities at the Grassroots Level: Basic Issues

1. Basis for Mediation

According to Article 16 of the Law on Grassroots Mediation 2013, mediation at the grassroots level is conducted when one of the following grounds is present:

- One party or both parties request mediation;- The mediator witnesses or becomes aware of an incident or matter within the scope of mediation;- As assigned by the leader of the mediation team or at the suggestion of relevant agencies, organizations, or individuals.

2. Venue and Time for Mediation

The venue for mediation is the place where the incident or matter occurred or a place chosen by the parties or mediator, ensuring it is convenient for the parties.

Within 03 days from the date of being assigned, the mediator shall begin mediation, unless it is necessary to mediate immediately upon witnessing the incident or the parties have agreed otherwise on the time for mediation.

This content is stipulated in Article 20 of the Law on Grassroots Mediation 2013.

3. Rights and Obligations of the Parties in Mediation

According to Article 17 of the Law on Grassroots Mediation 2013, the parties in mediation have the following rights and obligations:

- Choose, propose mediators, venue, and time for conducting mediation;- Agree to or reject mediation; request temporary suspension or termination of mediation;- Request that mediation be conducted publicly or privately;- Express their desires and make decisions on the content of the mediation resolution;- Accurately present the facts of the incident or matter; provide relevant documents and evidence;- Respect the mediator and the rights of the related parties;- Do not cause disturbances to security and order at the mediation venue.

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