Thomas John MCIArb

Great conversation with Paul Meerts at the Societeit De Witte Den Haag about why advancing mediation skills globally matters more than ever.

Global cooperation hits a low point. Traditional institutions struggle to resolve disputes. Tensions are being escalated.

Against this backdrop, skilled and who can bridge divides aren't just helpful—they're essential.

This led us to discuss the CDRC Vienna —where future and learn to navigate the complex, high-stakes disputes of tomorrow.

Why students should compete: ✅ Real international mediation experience with realistic scenarios ✅ Mentorship from world-class experts ✅ Skills to navigate cultural differences and geopolitical complexity ✅ Global network of future ADR professionals ✅ Feedback that accelerates your growth.

Why professionals should assess: ✅ Shape the next generation when we need them most ✅ Learn from fresh perspectives across jurisdictions ✅ Network with top global talent ✅ Refine your own practice ✅ Contribute to building alternatives to strained institutions.

The best part? It's not just a competition—it's building a community of experts equipped to resolve the disputes of an increasingly fragmented world. 🤝
The future of dispute resolution starts with education. And we need that future now.

👉Mixing Cultures, Blending Solutions: The Art of Mediation Inspired by Culinary Mastery👈

Recently, I had the pleasure and privilege to visit “Dalva e Dito” by Chef Alex Atala. Atala is globally celebrated for his masterful fusion of Amazonian flavors with global culinary techniques. His food exemplifies innovation rooted in cultural respect - and highlights the beauty of bringing together diverse traditions and cultures to create something unique and harmonious.

While enjoying his food, and observing the lunch service in his kitchen, I considered that running a successful kitchen is much like running a successful mediation that involves cross-cultural elements.

First, the fine art of food preparation requires marrying distinct flavors, including from very different backgrounds, that must complement each other perfectly, just as parties in mediation must find common ground despite their differences.

Second, a kitchen staffed by chefs from multiple cultures demands clear, open, and respectful communication to coordinate efforts and achieve a shared goal—mirroring how mediators facilitate understanding and collaboration among diverse participants.

I was grateful for this immense experience which was crowned by meeting Chef Atala after lunch. I am sure, the incredible deep and rich flavors of his to die for version of pudim de leite will sit on the tip of my tongue during my next mediation!