In a world marked by intensifying geopolitical rivalries, protracted conflicts, and the growing inefficacy of traditional international institutions, the establishment of the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) emerges as a significant and timely initiative. Spearheaded by China and supported by 33 founding members including Pakistan, the IOMed offers a fresh and much-needed platform for peaceful and consensual dispute resolution. It represents a renewed commitment to multilateralism, dialogue, and the peaceful settlement of disputes in an increasingly fragmented global order.
The signing ceremony for the Convention on the Establishment of IOMed, held in Hong Kong—a Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China—was a momentous occasion. It drew over 400 high-level representatives from 85 countries and 20 international organizations, underlining the deep global interest in alternative mechanisms of conflict resolution. Pakistan was among the first to sign the convention, reaffirming its dedication to international cooperation and diplomacy.
The Geopolitical Context: A Crisis of Confidence in the Existing System
The backdrop to IOMed’s creation is the growing disillusionment with the existing global order. Institutions such as the United Nations and the International Court of Justice were once pillars of the international rules-based system. However, their persistent failures to enforce resolutions—especially concerning long-standing conflicts like Palestine and Kashmir—have caused widespread frustration.
Despite numerous UN Security Council resolutions calling for a just solution in both Palestine and Jammu & Kashmir, implementation remains elusive. The situation in Gaza, where Israeli actions have blatantly disregarded UN charters, international law, and humanitarian norms, exemplifies the structural paralysis of the existing institutions. Similarly, India’s unilateral actions in Kashmir, including its abrogation of Article 370 and violations of the Indus Waters Treaty, have gone unchecked, eroding global confidence in the ability of the UN and related bodies to act decisively.
This systemic failure has left a vacuum, prompting a demand for new and more effective mechanisms to address international disputes. In this context, the Chinese initiative to establish IOMed shines as a pragmatic, inclusive, and constructive alternative.
What is IOMed?
The International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) is the world’s first intergovernmental legal organization dedicated solely to resolving international disputes through mediation. Unlike traditional forums that rely heavily on litigation or arbitration—often adversarial and costly—mediation offers a more collaborative, cost-effective, and timely approach. It is based on consensus and mutual respect, making it particularly attractive for developing countries that often find themselves marginalized in international legal battles due to resource constraints.
Hong Kong, with its unique “one country, two systems” model, common and continental legal heritage, and vibrant international connectivity, provides an ideal base for IOMed’s headquarters. As John Lee, Chief Executive of Hong Kong, noted during the ceremony, the city is well-positioned to become a global hub for mediation.
China’s Leadership: Shaping a New Global Order
China’s proactive role in establishing IOMed is emblematic of its broader vision for a multipolar, cooperative global order. The initiative aligns with President Xi Jinping’s advocacy for a “shared future for mankind,” where peace, cooperation, and mutual respect supersede coercion and conflict.
This vision is also reflected in China’s other major global initiatives, including the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the Global Development Initiative (GDI), the Global Security Initiative (GSI), and the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI). Together, these form the cornerstone of China’s efforts to rebalance global power structures and promote inclusive development.
By founding IOMed, China seeks not to undermine existing institutions but to complement and strengthen global efforts towards peaceful conflict resolution. It reflects China’s rising stature as a responsible global power, one that is not only economically influential but also morally invested in shaping a fairer international order.
The Global South and IOMed: A Much-Needed Voice
Developing countries across Asia, Africa, and Latin America have long suffered from inequities in the international legal system. For many of these nations, legal battles at forums like the International Court of Justice are financially burdensome and politically unbalanced. Mediation offers an alternative route—one that is less intimidating and more aligned with traditional diplomatic practices.
At the IOMed signing ceremony, Abu Bakarr Karim, Ambassador of Sierra Leone to China, rightly pointed out that Global South countries are particularly challenged in resolving disputes fairly. The IOMed presents them with a neutral platform to voice their concerns, seek redress, and settle conflicts through dialogue.
Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, echoed these sentiments. He emphasized that Pakistan, as a founding member, views the IOMed as a significant step toward global peace and development. He also commended China’s foresight and leadership in establishing the organization, describing it as a valuable contribution to global multilateralism.
Pakistan and IOMed: A Natural Partnership
Pakistan’s commitment to peaceful dispute resolution and international cooperation is deeply rooted in its foreign policy. As a country that has repeatedly called for the implementation of UN resolutions on Kashmir and has sought mediation in its disputes with India, Pakistan’s participation in IOMed is both logical and strategic.
By joining the IOMed, Pakistan reaffirms its support for resolving conflicts through dialogue rather than confrontation. It also positions itself at the forefront of a transformative international effort that could reshape how the world approaches diplomacy and dispute resolution.
Moreover, Pakistan’s role in IOMed could help spotlight unresolved issues such as the Kashmir dispute and the situation in Gaza. Senator Dar used the platform to highlight these crises and reiterated the need for adherence to international law and the UN Charter. He stressed that global peace is impossible without justice and that the aspirations of oppressed peoples must be respected.
A Framework for the Future
Mediation is not new to diplomacy. It has been practiced for centuries, but it has lacked a comprehensive institutional framework—until now. The IOMed Convention provides that framework, formalizing mediation as a legitimate and effective method of resolving disputes. As Danilo Turk, former President of Slovenia, noted, this convention marks a critical step forward in organizing and institutionalizing diplomatic conciliation.
Anna Joubin-Bret, Secretary of the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law, pointed out that mediation is “friendlier” and “win-win.” It is less adversarial, more flexible, and crucially, more in line with the cooperative spirit needed in today’s complex world. She added that Hong Kong, with its legal and geographical advantages, is well-suited to serve as the headquarters of IOMed.
Toward a Just and Inclusive World Order
The establishment of IOMed is not just about mediation; it is about envisioning a world where dialogue takes precedence over domination, where multilateralism triumphs over unilateralism, and where every country—regardless of size or power—has a voice.
The success of IOMed will depend on continued support from the international community, the integrity of its processes, and its ability to act impartially. As more countries join and the organization’s framework evolves, it could become a cornerstone of a new international order—one that is more equitable, just, and peaceful.
China’s role in this transformation cannot be overstated. Through initiatives like IOMed, it is charting a course that challenges the outdated logic of zero-sum geopolitics. Instead, it promotes a vision of shared prosperity, mutual respect, and cooperative development.
A Ray of Hope and Expectations
In a world desperately seeking new paths to peace, the International Organization for Mediation offers a ray of hope. It signals the beginning of a new era where disputes can be resolved not through force, coercion, or intimidation—but through understanding, dialogue, and respect for sovereignty and international law.
As a founding member, Pakistan stands ready to support the mission of IOMed, leveraging its platform to promote regional peace, highlight unresolved conflicts, and advocate for justice and human dignity.
The IOMed initiative is more than just a new organization—it is a movement toward a better, fairer world. And in this journey, China and Pakistan walk side by side, contributing to a future where peace is not an abstract ideal but a practical and achievable goal.
