The Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs has prepared a draft bill to amend the Mediation Act, 2068 and has published it for public feedback. The notice, dated 2083/02/04, asks the public and stakeholders to send suggestions within 15 days through lawdrafting@moljpa.gov.np.

The proposed amendment aims to make mediation more practical and effective by simplifying the number and appointment process of mediators, allowing courts and dispute-hearing bodies to encourage mediation, and clarifying that disputes which can legally be settled may be resolved through mediation. It also allows mediation-related discussions through video conference and proposes quicker implementation of written mediation agreements.

The bill introduces new institutional mechanisms to promote mediation. These include a Commercial Sector Mediation Promotion Committee, Provincial Mediation Coordination Committees, and District Mediation Coordination Committees. It also supports the establishment of community mediation centres at the local level, with inclusive representation of women, Dalit and Indigenous communities in mediation groups.

The draft also seeks to expand mediation in commercial disputes, public development project-related disputes, and community-level conflicts. It proposes recognizing and implementing mediation agreements made abroad under certain conditions, while also allowing local-level cases to be referred for mediation where appropriate. The ministry says the reform will help reduce court burden, lower dispute costs and improve access to justice.