Hong Kong-based IOMed settles second dispute as body marks its first year

A Hong Kong-based intergovernmental mediation body, the International Organisation for Mediation (IOMed), has successfully settled its second dispute and reported a surge in inquiries on the organisation's first anniversary. Teresa Cheng Yeuk-wah, the secretary general of IOMed, revealed that the organisation had completed a case on an infrastructure project in Malaysia and was handling another.

Cheng emphasised that the organisation aims to foster a culture where mediation becomes a natural and trusted choice for resolving international disputes. The International Organisation for Mediation, which was inaugurated on October 20, 2025, now boasts 48 signatory states and 18 contracting states. These signatory states span various regions, including Asia, Africa, Latin America, Oceania, and Europe.

IOMed's membership has grown from 37 signatory states and eight contracting states last year. Cheng highlighted that the organisation had been receiving over a dozen inquiries from parties interested in conducting mediation at the body. Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu expressed confidence in IOMed, noting the rapid growth in signatory and contracting states and praising the organisation's commitment to resolving international disputes through mediation.

The Hong Kong government, through a policy announcement, supports IOMed by including its mediation services as a dispute resolution option in government contracts and agreements. Cui Jianchun, a commissioner of the Chinese foreign ministry's office in Hong Kong, praised IOMed's development as a pioneering journey and pledged continued support from China.