On April 12, 2024, the Mediators Association of Georgia (MAG), with USAID Rule of Law Program support, organized a training for mediators titled Procedural Law for Mediation. The training, conducted by Lasha Kalandadze, a former judge and a member of MAG, was a part of the ongoing professional development of mediators, aiming to enhance their knowledge and skills in mediation procedures. The event was conducted online, with 18 mediators from Tbilisi, Rustavi, Kutaisi, Batumi, and Bolnisi participating.

The participants received information about legal and practical aspects of mediation procedures. The trainer emphasized the significance of elucidating to the parties the nature of mediation and adequately preparing them for the process. The participants discussed various problematic issues in practice, including court-annexed vs private mediation, as well as the distinction between mandatory and voluntary mediation, and the execution and conditions of mediation settlements.

The meeting proceeded with an engaging discussion and a question-and-answer session. Questions touched upon various topics, including the importance of clarifying to the parties that a mediator does not assume the role of a judge and that the parties should collaboratively reach a mutually beneficial resolution, as well as the significance of employing effective strategies to convince the parties of the advantages of mediation.

Furthermore, participants raised inquiries regarding the terms and conditions of mediation settlements. The trainer shared practical insights with the participants regarding aspects considered in mediation legislation, particularly focusing on guarantees of confidentiality protection during the procedure, the enforcement of mediation agreements, and the flexibility granted to parties in governing procedures compared to court processes.

Overall, the training offered a valuable platform for mediators to enhance their expertise and readiness for mediation proceedings.