Strengthening Mediation in the MENA Region

From May 12 to 17, CAO co-facilitated an engaging Mediator Workshop in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, in collaboration with the Independent Accountability Mechanisms (IAMs) of the African Development Bank’s Independent Recourse Mechanism (IRM) and the European Investment Bank Complaints Mechanism (EIB-CM). The event welcomed 14 in-person participants. 

Held in Hammamet, Tunisia, the workshop brought together a diverse group of experienced dispute resolution practitioners from across the region for mutual learning and skills exchange. The program aimed to strengthen mediation capacity and explore innovative approaches to dispute resolution within independent accountability mechanisms. 

Throughout the weeklong workshop, participants engaged in interactive sessions focused on practical tools for designing and facilitating mediation processes between governments, companies, and communities. Case-based learning and peer exchange helped deepen participants’ understanding of mediation in complex, multi-stakeholder settings. 

The workshop highlighted the importance of culturally grounded processes, inclusive dialogue, and reaffirmed a shared commitment to accountability, trust-building, and sustainable development in the MENA region. 

“Thank you for the learning, the sharing, the laughs, the teamwork, and the kindness throughout. It was truly a pleasure to co-mediate, chat, and grow with each of you!” —  Rabih Sfeir, Certified Mediator