On May 30, 2025, China, in collaboration with over 30 countries—including Indonesia, Pakistan, Laos, Cambodia, and Serbia—formally established the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) in Hong Kong. This intergovernmental legal body is dedicated to resolving international disputes through mediation, offering an alternative to traditional litigation and arbitration methods.

The signing ceremony, presided over by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, was attended by representatives from participating nations and international organizations, including the United Nations. Wang emphasized the initiative as a departure from zero-sum conflict approaches, promoting instead China's vision of peaceful conflict resolution. He stated that the establishment of IOMed, "helps to move beyond the zero-sum mindset of 'you lose and I win.'"

The IOMed's headquarters will be located in the Old Wan Chai Police Station in Hong Kong, with operations expected to commence by late 2025 or early 2026. The Hong Kong Legislative Council approved HK$466.6 million (approximately US$58.8 million) in funding for the conversion of the old police station into the IOMed headquarters.

IOMed aims to provide a structured platform for dispute resolution through mediation, distinguishing itself from judicial bodies like the International Court of Justice by emphasizing dialogue, mutual understanding, and consensus-building. The organization will handle diverse disputes, including those between countries, between a country and nationals of another country, and between private international entities.

Hong Kong's Justice Secretary Paul Lam highlighted that the new body would help Hong Kong cope with challenges that arise when "hostile external forces are attempting to de-internationalize and de-functionalize" the city.

The establishment of IOMed underscores China's commitment to promoting peaceful conflict resolution and enhancing Hong Kong's status as a center for international legal and dispute resolution services. This initiative aligns with China's broader strategy to enhance its global governance role amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties.

For Hong Kong, hosting the IOMed headquarters reinforces its position as a leading arbitration center and serves as a countermeasure to efforts that seek to diminish its international relevance following recent political unrest and pandemic-related disruptions.

The creation of IOMed signifies China's strategic move to position itself as a global leader in peaceful conflict resolution. By situating the organization's headquarters in Hong Kong, China aims to bolster the city's status as a center for international legal and dispute resolution services. This initiative reflects China's broader ambition to enhance its influence in global governance and provide alternative mechanisms for resolving international disputes.

The establishment of the International Organization for Mediation marks a significant development in international dispute resolution, offering a new avenue for peaceful conflict resolution and highlighting China's proactive role in shaping global governance structures.