An Assessment of ARMO from the Perspective of Taiwan

Abstract

The Asia-Pacific region is notable for its diversity and the close interplay between the countries and economies of this area. As a member of this region, Taiwan has consistently participated in relevant bilateral or regional interactions related to both economic and non-economic matters with other nations. As such, differences or disputes are often unavoidable. Therefore, an effective and peaceful dispute settlement mechanism is required to maintain amicable and mutually beneficial relations in this region. For that purpose, the international community should recognize the Asia-Pacific Regional Mediation Organization (hereinafter “ARMO”) to initiate new international dispute resolution mechanisms.

This paper mainly assesses the possible influences of the ARMO from the perspective of Taiwan, and analyzes and compares the different mediation mechanisms at domestic and international levels. As the ARMO has a broad coverage regarding membership and jurisdiction, and would appoint impartial and professional mediators who provide a “friendly, swift and peaceful” forum platform for dispute resolution, the ARMO is a promising platform for Taiwan to settle a wide range of disputes. If the ARMO could achieve a balance between efficiency and the autonomy of parties with respect to the proceedings and the effect of the settlement, the ARMO could be achieved a higher standing in the Asia-Pacific region.

Keywords: ARMO, mediation, dispute settlement mechanism, Asia-Pacific region, Taiwan