In an increasingly complex and globalised Intellectual Property (IP) landscape, traditional litigation may not always be the most effective path to resolving disputes. Mediation offers a dynamic, collaborative alternative that not only resolves conflicts but can also foster innovation and preserve valuable business relationships. This panel will explore how mediation, particularly in the context of intellectual property, can unlock creative solutions that litigation often overlooks. From licensing arrangements and joint ventures to novel settlement structures, mediation allows parties to move beyond zero-sum outcomes and toward mutually beneficial resolutions. Panellists will examine the unique characteristics of IP such as its intangible nature, cross-border implications, and rapid evolution, and how these influence the mediation process.

The session will also highlight international mediation frameworks, including the EUIPO’s mediation services and the Singapore Convention on Mediation, offering practical insights into how these mechanisms are shaping the future of global IP dispute resolution.

Key discussion points will include: the required elements to have a successful mediation from the mediator’s perspective and the parties’ perspective, the impact of the nature of intellectual property on these requirements, the interest of early neutral evaluations, examples of creative results from mediations in IP matters, international mediation forums, such as EUIPO’s new initiative, and the Singapore Mediation Agreement.