Closing Event of the Project on Developing Mediation Practices in Civil Disputes in Turkey took place in Ankara on 13 September 2017. The Closing Event was honoured by the Minister of Justice of the Republic of Turkey, Mr Abdulhamit GÜL who praised the progress achieved in mediation scheme in Turkey and underlined the importance of ADR mechanisms and the positive impact on the administration of justice in Turkey. The Ambassador of Sweden, H.E. Mr. Lars WAHLUND highlighted the importance attached to rule of law and committed continued support of Sweden to that end. Ms Verena TAYLOR, Director of the Office of the Directorate General of Programmes of the Council of Europe explained the cooperation activities with different actors and stakeholders in Turkey, and the support and commitment of the Council of Europe in the improvement of human rights, democracy and rule of law. Mr Feyzullah TAŞKIN, Director General of Civil Law Affairs of the Ministry of Justice delivered a speech about the achievements of the Project and importance of mediation. Mr Jeremy TAGG, Council of Europe CEPEJ Expert presented the baseline and end-line survey results and the Strategic Road Map for Mediation Services in Turkey. Mr. Hakan ÖZTATAR, Head of the Mediation Department of the Ministry of Justice focused on the outputs and results of the Project in pilot jurisdictions and presented the way ahead for the dissemination of pilot practices throughout the country. Finally Mr. Nicolò FRANCESCHELLI, Evaluation Expert presented the findings of the Final Project Evaluation and some of the recommendations derived as a result of the evaluation.
The Closing Event hosted a total of 300 participants approximately, who represent different stakeholders, namely the Court of Cassation, the Constitutional Court, the Council of State, the Council of Judges and Prosecutors, the Union of Turkish Bar Associations, Embassies, mediation associations, professional organisations, mediators, lawyers, judges and court staff in pilot jurisdictions.
