Mediation: An Effective Tool for Resolving Disputes in Sports

Abstract

In the modern era, sports have become deeply embedded in the social fabric and daily lives of people globally. Major sporting events like the Commonwealth Games, Asian Games and the Olympics witness intense competitive spirit as athletes strive to win accolades for their nations. While most sportspersons compete fairly, some unfortunately resort to unethical practices like doping, match-fixing and corruption in the quest for victory. To tackle these ethical issues that threaten the integrity of sports, various organizations have been established worldwide to resolve disputes through mediation. This paper explores the emergence of mediation as an efficient alternative dispute resolution mechanism for conflicts in contemporary sports. It analyzes key institutions providing mediation services, the unique nature of sports disputes, and the multifaceted benefits of mediation in safeguarding the spirit of sportsmanship