Community Mediation Centre (Singapore)

The Community Mediation Centres (CMCs) in Singapore are government-supported centres that provide mediation services to help resolve disputes amicably and out of court. Established under the Community Mediation Centres Act, the CMCs aim to foster a culture of neighbourliness and social harmony by empowering individuals to find mutually agreeable solutions to conflicts.

The CMCs handle a wide range of disputes, including neighbourly disputes, minor disagreements, and family-related issues. Mediation is conducted by trained volunteers who act as neutral facilitators, assisting parties in understanding each other's perspectives and exploring potential resolutions. The process is voluntary and confidential.

Referrals to the CMCs can come from various sources, including the courts, grassroots organisations, and members of the public. The goal is to provide a cost-effective and accessible alternative to litigation, thereby easing the burden on the court system and promoting community cohesion. While the CMCs do not have the power to impose binding decisions, the resolutions reached through mediation are often documented in a settlement agreement, which parties are encouraged to uphold. The CMCs play a significant role in Singapore's dispute resolution landscape.