In 2020, ADR Center was commissioned by the International Development Law Organization (IDLO), with funding from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), to provide ADR technical assistance for the Kingdom of Jordan. The project focused on enhancing Jordan’s legal and institutional framework for commercial mediation, fostering a culture of dispute resolution that aligns with international best practices.
The primary objective was to assist the Government of Jordan in establishing commercial mediation as an effective, accessible, and sustainable mechanism for resolving disputes, both in the private and public sectors. By integrating alternative dispute resolution (ADR) techniques into the existing legal structure, the project sought to streamline conflict resolution processes, reduce the strain on courts, and bolster confidence in the judicial system—an essential step toward supporting Jordan’s economic growth and attracting foreign investments.
The project involved a comprehensive assessment & analysis of Jordan’s existing commercial dispute resolution mechanisms, with the goal of identifying gaps, opportunities, and recommendations for improvement.
Key activities included:
Legal Framework Assessment: ADR Center conducted a detailed evaluation of Jordan’s existing legal infrastructure concerning commercial mediation. This included reviewing relevant laws, regulations, and procedures to identify potential obstacles to the successful implementation of mediation as a mainstream dispute resolution method.
Stakeholder Consultation: The team engaged with key stakeholders in Jordan’s legal, business, and governmental sectors to understand their perspectives on mediation. This ensured that the recommendations reflected local realities and had broad support across stakeholders.
Best Practices Research: Leveraging international best practices in commercial mediation, ADR Center developed a framework for Jordan’s future mediation practices. This research was used to create a draft law, laying out the legislative foundation for the successful integration of mediation.
Action Plan Development: Based on the findings of the legal assessment and stakeholder consultations, ADR Center developed a comprehensive Mediation Action Plan. This plan outlined key steps, legislative reforms, and capacity-building initiatives required to implement and institutionalize commercial mediation across Jordan.
Training and Capacity Building: To ensure the long-term success of the project, ADR Center provided tailored training programs for key stakeholders, including judges, lawyers, and business leaders. These programs aimed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to support and promote commercial mediation within their respective spheres.
The International Consultant Jordan – Commercial Mediation project achieved significant milestones that have laid the groundwork for a sustainable, nationally recognized mediation framework in Jordan.
Some of the key results include:
Comprehensive Legal Framework: The project delivered an extensive functional analysis of Jordan’s legal environment, highlighting gaps and proposing reforms. The recommendations report provided detailed guidance on integrating commercial mediation into the existing legal system, ensuring that it would be both effective and aligned with international standards.
Development of a Mediation Action Plan: The Mediation Action Plan was instrumental in outlining clear, actionable steps for Jordan to implement mediation as a mainstream dispute resolution tool. It includes practical recommendations for legislation, institutional support, and public awareness campaigns.
Improved Stakeholder Engagement: Through consultations and training, ADR Center fostered collaboration among key stakeholders. By involving government agencies, legal professionals, and the private sector, the project ensured that the implementation of commercial mediation would be supported by all relevant parties.
Cultural and Economic Impact: The project contributed to Jordan’s broader goals of improving its business climate and enhancing social peace. By promoting commercial mediation, the project helped build a system where disputes are resolved amicably, thereby restoring and strengthening relationships between businesses, individuals, and communities. This has direct implications for improving both the investment climate and social cohesion in Jordan, with long-term benefits for the economy and society.
Ultimately, the project succeeded in creating the foundation for a more efficient, accessible, and trusted dispute resolution system that is tailored to Jordan’s unique legal and cultural context. The success of this project is expected to have a lasting impact on Jordan’s legal infrastructure, business environment, and overall social harmony.
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