The first Global Pound Conference event was held in Singapore on March 17-18. Over 400 people participated in the event. Attendees came from all over the world including the U.S., Australia, New Zealand, Japan, China, Pakistan, Great Britain, Fiji, and more.
Chief
Justice Sundaresh Menon used his Opening Address to outline changes in the economic landscape
that will lead to an increase in cross border disputes and the recognition that
access to justice needs to remain a priority. He outlines how Singapore is
responding to better shape the future of dispute resolution and improve access
to justice.
First
he emphasized “appropriate” dispute resolution rather than “alternative”
dispute resolution. This shift recognizes the broader tools available to
disputants that may be invoked even before a legal action. The key is
customization of the dispute management and resolution process to meet the
parties’ needs. The Chief Justice emphasized that this shift will not diminish
the role of the courts, instead, the courts will hold a special place as
“guardians of the rule of law and ultimate resolver of disputes”.
Second
there is greater collaboration and sharing of information among the courts and
governments around the world creates frameworks and international best
practices that lead to processes to meet the needs of users in both civil and
common law countries. The exchange of information occurs through Conferences,
memorandum of understanding and guidance adopted in multiple jurisdictions to
address questions of law, and Conventions on enforcement of court judgments to
name a few. These efforts improve consistency of outcomes across
jurisdictions and will reduce incentives for parties to “forum shop”.
Third,
there is recognition and embracing of the internationalism of delivery of legal
services. Singapore already recognized the increase in foreign lawyers
practicing in the country and instead of restricting access, established a
common disciplinary and regulatory framework to manage and strengthen the
global talent pool thereby strengthening Singapore’s position as a legal hub in
Asia.
The
Chief Justice proudly reviewed the many institutions established in Singapore
to promote effective dispute resolution. The institutions include the Singapore
International Arbitration Centre, the Singapore Mediation Institute and the
Singapore International Mediation Centre. These institutions are now joined by
the launch of the Singapore International Dispute Resolution Academy, dedicated
to training and educational excellence in dispute resolution.
The
Chief Justice’s remarks kicked off two days of vigorous discussion that was “no
holds barred”. The information collection at this event is the beginning
of the road to understand and transform the dispute management and resolution
landscape. Polling on Core Questions was followed by panel discussions that
gave context and definition to the event.
For me, three themes were
apparent. First, the courts will continue to play an important role in the
development and evolution of dispute management and resolution. Second, law
schools and continuing education programs will support and enhance knowledge of
effective dispute process and sharing of best practices. Third, technology will
play an important role in the future delivery of dispute management process.
These are my reflections but there may be other areas seen by different
stakeholders that may or may not form a thread with future events.
Sincerely Yours,
International Mediation Institution
0 komentar:
Posting Komentar