DHAKA : The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs (MoLJPA), conducted the Basic Mediation Training for Legal Professionals on 31 July–1 August 2026 at InterContinental Dhaka. The training brought together approximately 40 participants, including Special Mediators (lawyers), Legal Aid Officers, and officials from the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, the Directorate of Bangladesh Legal Aid (DBLA), the Judicial Administration Training Institute (JATI), and the Supreme Court of Bangladesh.

The training was inaugurated by Liaquet Ali Molla, Secretary of the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, who emphasized the importance of strengthening mediation services to improve access to justice and promote the timely resolution of disputes.

The closing ceremony, held on 1 August, was attended by Hon. Md. Asaduzzaman, MP, Minister of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, as the Chief Guest, and Ms. TAKAHASHI Junko, Chief Representative of JICA Bangladesh Office, as the Special Guest. In his remarks, the Minister highlighted the significance of mediation as an effective, accessible, and people-centered dispute resolution mechanism, and expressed his expectations that the newly established Special Mediator system would contribute to reducing court backlogs and improving access to justice for citizens. He also encouraged the participants to apply the knowledge and skills gained through the training in their professional practice and to play an active role in promoting mediation across the country.

The training was facilitated by Professor MIYATAKE Masako, a mediation expert from Japan, and combined lectures with practical exercises. Participants enhanced their understanding of mediation principles and processes, communication and negotiation techniques, mediator ethics, and practical skills through role-playing and mock mediation sessions.

Through the Development of Mediation and Civil Litigation Practices for Enhancement of Access to Justice Project (Access to Justice Project), JICA has been supporting the Government of Bangladesh in promoting mediation as an effective alternative dispute resolution mechanism. Since April 2025, the project has implemented a pilot initiative in Narsingdi and Cumilla,  trained in total [結森1] [結森2] [SB3] 44 lawyer-mediators at District Legal Aid Offices which allowed the resolution of 898 cases through mediation by April 2026. Building on the positive outcomes of this pilot, the amended Legal Aid Services Act established by the Special Mediator system, institutionalizing the lawyer-mediator model developed under the project.

Following the establishment of the new system, JICA has been working closely with the DBLA and other relevant institutions to support its effective and sustainable implementation. This cooperation includes capacity development for mediators and legal aid officials, the sharing of Japan’s practical experience and expertise in mediation and strengthened collaboration among justice-sector stakeholders.

The Basic Mediation Training marks an important milestone in these efforts. By enhancing the knowledge and skills of Special Mediators and legal professionals, the training is expected to contribute to the delivery of higher-quality mediation services, improved access to justice, and the more efficient resolution of civil and family disputes across Bangladesh.

JICA remains dedicated to supporting the Government of Bangladesh in strengthening the mediation system and promoting access to justice for all. As part of this ongoing cooperation, Advanced Mediation Training is planned later this year to further develop the professional competencies of Special Mediators and support the effective implementation of the newly established system.