The Feasibility of Mediation in the Grassroots Society of China
from Part IV - Chinese Mediation in Action
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 23 October 2025
Chapter 6 provides a detailed empirical case study on the feasibility of mediation in grassroots societies of China. This chapter employs qualitative methods, including participant observation and thick description, to illustrate the entire process of court mediation in a rural village in Yunnan Province. It highlights the unique micro skills and techniques used by grassroots judges to facilitate dispute resolution, emphasising the importance of mediation in preserving face and repairing interpersonal relationships. The chapter argues that mediation is particularly suitable for the rural context due to the social, cultural and economic characteristics of the region. It also discusses the challenges faced by grassroots judges, including their educational background and the mismatch between formal legal training and local needs. The findings suggest that mediation is a more effective and humane approach to dispute resolution in underdeveloped areas, offering a practical alternative to litigation.
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