Hanoi (VNA) - Results of a study into mediation at the grassroots level by theJustice Initiatives Facilitation Fund (JIFF) were discussed in Hanoi on July 8.
Theevent was co-held by the Vietnam Judicial Support Association for the Poor(VIJUSAP), Oxfam in Vietnam, and JIFF.
Inan address, VIJUSAP President Dr Ta Thi Minh Ly said mediation at the grassrootslevel holds a great importance, as this is the first step in handlingdifferences of opinion and legal violations, and serves as a cornerstone for stabilityand solidarity in the community and in socio-economic development.
Italso helps protect citizens’ legitimate rights and benefits, especially thoseof the disadvantaged.
However,Ly noted, the study also found that access to mediation at the grassroots levelremains limited, as people only pay attention to the issue when conflicts anddisputes occur.
Localcustoms can also create conditions unfavourable for mediation.
Shepointed out that there is a lack of constant communication, personnel, anddocuments on the issue, among other concerns.
Duringthe discussion, delegates analysed bottlenecks in policies and legal regulationsand put forward recommendations to improve mediation at the grassroots level.
Vietnamneeds to amend legal regulations on the issue and review the role of theVietnam Fatherland Front and social organisations in the establishment ofmediation groups, they said.
PhamQuang Tu, Deputy Country Director of Oxfam Vietnam, said the participation ofmany stakeholders, especially women, is significant in raising the efficiencyof mediation at the grassroots level./.