Comparative study of mediation prior to an individual labor dispute
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61347/psa.v4i2.168Keywords:
Alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, comparative law, individual labor litigation, labor justice, labor mediationAbstract
The limited effectiveness of pre-litigation mediation in individual labor disputes within labor justice systems is reflected in the persistence of litigation, the congestion of judicial bodies, and the diversity of regulatory models in comparative contexts. This study aimed to comparatively analyze pre-litigation mediation in individual labor disputes across different legal systems in order to identify its regulatory characteristics, levels of implementation, and effectiveness in resolving labor conflicts. Methodologically, a qualitative, descriptive, and comparative study was conducted through a documentary design based on the review of national and international regulations, academic literature, and comparative legislation from Ecuador, Colombia, Peru, Italy, and Spain, complemented by indexed scientific articles. The collected information was systematized through comparative analysis matrices. The results showed that mediation was based on principles such as voluntariness, neutrality, confidentiality, and impartiality; however, its effectiveness was conditioned by the degree of institutionalization and the regulatory characteristics of each legal system. Legal systems with higher levels of mandatory participation or procedural requirements, such as Peru, Italy, and Spain, showed greater incorporation of mediation mechanisms, whereas Ecuador presented limitations due to its voluntary nature. It was concluded that labor mediation constitutes a mechanism with the potential to improve the efficiency of labor justice systems, although its actual impact depends on the balance between regulation, institutionalization, and cultural conditions that promote the participation of the parties.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Yamilex Zulay Ajo Rojas, Genesis Michelle Rodriguez Guevara, Yesenia Jacqueline Sanaguano Echeverria, Fredy Roberto Hidalgo Cajo
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