On February 15, 2011 the Professional Association of Mediators in Bulgaria will launch a new project, supported by the America for Bulgaria Foundation, at the Palace of Justice in Sofia. This project aims to promote mediation as an alternative dispute-resolution method. What is hidden behind these routine words is a wealth of expertise, dedication and hard work contributed by people from all walks of life who volunteer as mediators, as well as the resolve of judges from Sofia’s Regional Court to better serve citizens and businesses by solving disputes in a timely and fair manner.
The project will support the growth of the Settlement Center with the Sofia Regional Court and will develop effective systems for administration and quality control. It will also enhance the capacity of mediators and judges to adroitly use different alternative dispute resolution techniques and will raise awareness of the potential of mediation among citizens, businesses, attorneys, and journalists.
Wider use of mediation will have a significant social impact; it will improvere lationships between litigating parties and will help them solve problems by identifying mutual interests. ABF is proud to support the endeavor of the Association of Mediators. This initiative signals the emergence of a new civic culture in our country, based on dialogue and respect for the rights and dignity of its citizens.
