I’ve spent the past week in São Paulo meeting with colleagues, old and new. I’m continuing to learn more about the mediation profession in Brazil and talked with mediators at length about the pros and cons of the different models of mediation in the UK and Brazil. Compared to the conventional one day model primarily practiced in the UK, mediations in Brazil commonly last over several months. I consider there to be benefits to both models and enjoy the flexibility mediation allows in terms of process design. And at the same time I see why a structured finite process is very helpful and sometimes necessary.

Once again my time here has left me with a renewed optimism not just for the advancement of mediation but for the interesting and inspiring community that is formed through international dispute resolution. The energy of this city lifts me up and most of all the generosity and kindness of people who I’m lucky enough to call colleagues fills me with gratitude. To name just a few who shared their time, advice, company and warmth: Marcelo Perlman Caio Campello de Menezes Gustavo Milaré Diego Faleck , John Anderson and Rissiane dos Santos Goulart.