The problem of impostors in mediation has become a topic of discussion ahead of the first Congress of Mediators of the Kyrgyz Republic. During a review of the legal services market, members of the organizing committee identified numerous "mediators" who, without relevant education and legal grounds, offer their services. This raises serious concerns within the professional community, as turning to such "experts" can be both useless and dangerous for citizens.
The most significant risk is the threat of leakage of confidential information. In the mediation process, whether it concerns family disputes, business divisions, or criminal cases, participants disclose sensitive data, hoping for legally guaranteed confidentiality. Professional mediators value their reputation and strictly adhere to ethical standards, while impostors bear no responsibility for possible consequences. Experts advise clients to request the certificate number that verifies the mediator's status upon first contact.
It is important to note that with the adoption of the new Law of the Kyrgyz Republic "On Mediation," which was signed by the president on November 14, 2025, the requirements for mediators have become much stricter. Now, a mediator can only be a citizen over 25 years old, with higher education, no criminal record, and possessing a special certificate. Furthermore, this activity is strictly prohibited for civil servants.
To regulate activities in the country, the establishment of a unified Chamber of Mediators is planned — a self-governing professional association with mandatory membership. This structure will be responsible for approving training standards, adopting a code of ethics, and issuing official certificates. All practicing mediators must unite in mediation centers — non-profit organizations that ensure the transparency of all procedures.
With the new law coming into effect, mediation in Kyrgyzstan is reaching a new level. Mandatory informational meetings will be introduced for most civil, family, and labor disputes, as well as for certain criminal cases. At such meetings, a neutral mediator explains to the parties how to resolve the conflict without going to court and incurring unnecessary costs. The mediator does not make decisions for the parties and cannot represent anyone's interests in court for the same case — their task is to help the parties hear each other.
The planned changes are quite extensive: to implement the law, it is necessary to prepare at least 1,000 certified specialists. Anyone wishing to receive quality education and enter the legal registry can contact the organizing committee to enroll in training. At the Congress of Mediators, which will take place on March 14, 2026, all key issues regarding the development of the industry and mechanisms for protection against fraud will be discussed.
