Opinion | Global mediation body a chance for Hong Kong to prove sceptics wrong

The establishment of the International Organisation for Mediation in Hong Kong marks a significant milestone. This initiative presents an opportunity for the city to cement its status as a global mediation hub, fostering peaceful dialogue and dispute resolution in a rapidly evolving world. Success, however, depends on the local leadership’s ability to build trust and demonstrate a commitment to internationally recognised legal standards.

Such credibility is not assured by institutional declarations alone. No matter how often Hong Kong commits to internationally recognised norms, scepticism may remain, particularly given persistent perceptions that political influence has weakened judicial independence.

International parties will inevitably weigh their options when considering choice of venue. Why should good lawyers and big multinational companies forego other established venues with impeccable reputation for Hong Kong? A respected legal framework is essential to building confidence among stakeholders.

To achieve this, Hong Kong’s leadership must engage with legal communities around the world, assuring businesses, policymakers and practitioners that the organisation will uphold impartiality and effectiveness. Trust in mediation depends on strong governance, and Hong Kong’s role in this domain must be reinforced through institutional integrity.

The rule of law is the foundation upon which mediation rests, not just in Hong Kong but across global institutions. Recent years have demonstrated how political pressures can challenge legal norms. The Trump administration’s pressure over the Panama Canal and the fraught sale of ports operated by Hong Kong’s CK Hutchison Holdings illustrated the extent to which geopolitical interests can overshadow legal norms in international commerce.