Implementation of the directive on mediation in the Member States, its impact on mediation and its take-up by the courts

This own-initiative report concerns implementation of the directive on mediation in the Member States and its take-up by the courts. The amendments discuss how Member States give mediation settlement agreements the same authority as judicial decisions, and how some have added financial incentives or mandatory mediation, citing the Italian system. They promote mediation as a low-cost, faster alternative to litigation, and common standards for accessing the profession of mediator.