Mediation

Mediation helps to resolve a conflict autonomously and by mutual agreement, for example in separation, in the family, at work or with neighbours. The mediator does not decide but leads the conversation fairly and impartially.

Registered mediators are listed with the Ministry of Justice and are bound by the Civil Law Mediation Act, including confidentiality and neutrality.

When mediation makes sense

Mediation makes sense whenever conflicts are stuck, the will to reach an agreement exists and the parties want to treat each other respectfully in future. It is particularly suitable for divorce and separation, inheritance, neighbourhood disputes or workplace conflicts, and often saves time and money.

In contested divorces involving minor children, Austrian courts require counselling on the children’s needs (Sec. 95 (1a) AußStrG). Mediation can prevent or complement such court proceedings.

Requirements for successful mediation

• Voluntariness: everyone involved wants to resolve the conflict together.
• Neutral facilitation: an impartial mediator leads the structured process.
• Personal responsibility: the parties develop the solutions themselves instead of having them dictated by a court.

Where to find mediators

For subsidised family mediation you can use the Federal Chancellery’s lists. Official contact points and admitted mediators near you can be found in the register of the Ministry of Justice (BMJ) or via the Austrian Federal Association for Mediation (ÖBM).

For emotional topics, mediation makes sense where a concrete conflict between people is at the centre, not as a substitute for counselling or therapy for one person.