On the occasion of the nineteenth anniversary of the Slovenian Association of Mediators, the conference Mediation – Where Are We and Where Are We Going? was held in Ljubljana on 23 September 2025, in cooperation with the Croatian Association of Mediators. The event provided a forum for the discussion of the mandatory initial mediation session, the challenges and opportunities of mediation in commercial disputes, the role of lawyers, and the implications of new technologies. Through workshops devoted to trust and the mediator’s mindset, the conference also offered practical perspectives, underscoring that the future of mediation in the region is closely linked to professionalism, trust, and a willingness to embrace change. The conference was well attended, bringing together participants from across the region and from diverse professional backgrounds. The organisers successfully combined academic expertise, collegial exchange, and networking, thereby fostering new ties within the inter national mediation community. Particular acknowledgement is due to the as sociation’s volunteers, as well as to the Faculty of Law, University of Ljubljana, and its students for providing the venue and support.
Key words: mediation, mandatory initial session, commercial disputes, SMEs,trust, role of lawyers, Faculty of Law, University of Ljubljana.