Vietnam delegates propose banning mediation for domestic violence cases

During discussions on the draft Law on Grassroots Mediation (amended) at the National Assembly, delegates proposed banning mediation for cases involving serious domestic violence and child abuse. Delegate Luu Thi Thuy Hang argued that current practices of attempting to reconcile such cases often allow perpetrators to evade justice while leaving victims unprotected.

Regarding the introduction of online mediation, Deputy Huynh Ngoc Liem raised concerns about privacy and security in digital spaces. He warned of risks such as unauthorized recording, the presence of undisclosed third parties listening to sensitive information, and the potential for leaked data to exacerbate conflicts. He recommended that the law explicitly mandate principles such as participant consent, identity verification, and strict data protection protocols.

Minister of Justice Hoang Thanh Tung responded that the roadmap for implementing online mediation must remain flexible and suit local technological infrastructure, particularly in remote areas.