What happens when mediation institutions become more ambitious, AI enters the room, and users start asking whether the system is helping or getting in the way? What if an impasse is not a dead end, but a catalyst for resolution?

These are some of the questions that will be explored at the 4th IBA–VIAC CDRC Vienna Mediation Conference 2026 – “Building Momentum in Mediation: The Institutional Edge and the Breakthrough” on 2 July 2026.

And the timing could not be better.

In just two weeks, Vienna will once again welcome the global mediation community as the CDRC Vienna – The IBA–VIAC Mediation & Negotiation Competition brings together students, practitioners, academics, and mediation leaders from around the world. As proud supporters of the CDRC, we are delighted that this conference will once again serve as the opening event for what promises to be an inspiring fortnight of discussion, learning, and connection.

Featuring an outstanding international faculty, including Nadja Alexander, Stephen Walker, Lilit Petrosyan, Claudio ARTURO, Michael Mcilwrath, Geoff Sharp, Catherine Davidson, Joan Stearns Johnsen, Orit Asnin, Jeff Kichaven, Corrado Mora, and Hannah Tumpel, the conference will challenge assumptions, spark debate, and explore where mediation is headed next.

Whether you are a mediator, counsel, arbitrator, academic, or simply curious about the future of dispute resolution, this is a conversation worth being part of.

Places are filling quickly. If you haven’t secured your ticket yet, now is the time: Link