Three types of mediation (voluntary, court recommended, and now mandatory mediation) are in force in the Italian legal system. Mandatory mediation is provided for some classes of disputes and the mediator is appointed by a mediation centre which must satisfy the Ministry of Justice as to the existence of the statutory requirements for its existence. Mediators must possess a university degree and must have successfully followed a 50-hour training course. The new legislation has been the subject of agreement by some and of criticism by others. The mandatory nature of it is seen as the main highlight of this legislation, while the requirements for mediation centers and the training of mediators may be and should be improved.
Journal of International Arbitration