The Special Commission on Construction develops initiatives to integrate mediation into the construction sector and raise broader awareness of it. The construction industry requires efficient dispute resolution that does not hinder the progress of construction projects. In this context, mediation provides a valuable alternative to traditional procedures. Construction mediation can be applied to disputes between building owners, contractors, architects, suppliers, and other parties involved. However, this method is still not widely known within the sector. For this reason, the Special Commission on Construction informs and guides construction professionals on applying mediation in all its forms.
Why use mediation in construction?
Conflicts in the construction industry often arise over technical implementation, choice of materials, invoicing, or missed deadlines. Legal proceedings can be lengthy and complex, placing additional pressure on the progress of a construction project. Mediation offers a neutral environment where the parties can collaboratively reach a workable solution. Engaging in mediation early can help avoid unnecessary delays and rising costs.
Operations of the Commission
Since 2025, the Special Commission on Construction has adopted a project-based approach, with a core team and temporary working groups collaborating on practical tasks.
- The core team serves as a steering commission, guiding the overall direction and identifying new challenges in the sector. Its composition is reviewed and approved every three years by the Bureau of the Federal Mediation Commission.
- Four working groups have been established in addition to the core team, each with a specific target audience in mind.
- Working Group Construction Actors:
This working group focuses on all stakeholders involved in the construction process, such as project owners, contractors, designers, material suppliers, insurers, inspection bodies, … - Working Group Public Authorities:
This working group focuses on interaction with public authorities, including public procurement in construction, PPP/DBFM projects, permits, … - Working Group Justice Partners:
This working group targets justice-related partners such as courts and tribunals, the judiciary, bar associations, court experts, … - Working Group Higher Education:
This working group focuses on contacts with universities and universities of applied sciences.
This flexible approach enables the commission to respond quickly to the needs of the construction industry and key stakeholders, including construction companies, governments, courts, and training institutes.
Members of the core team (from left to right): Helga Van Peer, Erik Van Wellen, Violaine Labeye, Pierre Henry, Marco Schoups, Alexia Faes, Thomas Braun, Vera Desauw (not in the photo)
List of accredited mediators specialising in construction
The Federal Mediation Commission maintains a list of accredited mediators specialising in construction who have the necessary sector experience. They assist construction professionals in resolving disputes efficiently.
Cooperation with partners
The Special Commission on Construction works closely with organisations and professional associations to promote mediation in the sector. The commission also participates in networking events, exhibitions, and initiatives such as Mediation Week to further establish mediation as a standard practice within the construction industry.
Explore our other commissions
Multiple commissions within the Federal Mediation Commission collaborate to strengthen mediation in Belgium. Learn more about how they operate: