Although the 2008 EU Directive promotes mediation, its use remains very low due to a lack of a “mediation culture,” weak public trust, and low awareness. In Croatia, despite a legal framework and mediation centers, the number of cases is minimal and the system stagnates.

AmCham stresses the need to strengthen awareness and practice of mediation, especially in business and consumer disputes. It recommends: broader promotion and education (for citizens, judges, and lawyers), creation of a national database of mediators and statistics, a stronger consumer ADR system, and legal amendments granting judges the power to order mandatory information sessions on mediation.

Conclusion: Mediation can improve judicial efficiency, cut costs and case duration, preserve business relationships, and foster economic growth — but it must be systematically promoted and embedded into practice.