On Some Trends in the Development of the Institute of Intermediary in International Law

Abstract

The article is devoted to a comprehensive study of the evolution of the institution of intermediary in international law and modern trends in its transformation. The reasons for the transition from classical diplomatic forms to mixed (hybrid) models that combine legal, institutional, humanitarian and technological elements are considered. The article analyzes the international legal foundations of intermediary, enshrined in the Hague Conventions of 1899 and 1907 and Article 33 of the UN Charter, as well as the development of mediation practices using the example of UN General Assembly Resolution No. 65/283 and the 2020 European Union Peace Mediation Concept. Special attention is given to the role of international organizations, non-governmental actors, and individuals in developing hybrid intermediary models that expand the traditional framework of diplomacy. Specific examples – the Colombian Peace Process, the Brussels Dialogue between Serbia and Kosovo, and the Astana Process – demonstrate the practical results of multi-level interaction. Finally, the idea of ​​creating an international mediation hub as an institutional platform for exchanging experiences and coordinating the efforts of states and organizations aimed at strengthening international peace and security is substantiated. The main results showed that a multi-level and cross-sectoral approach allows for a more flexible response to global policy challenges, while the combination of elements of diplomacy and civil participation increases the sustainability and effectiveness of peacekeeping processes. The contribution of the study is to substantiate the need for institutionalization of modern forms of intermediary, which can contribute to increasing the effectiveness of peaceful settlement of international disputes and strengthening international security.

Keywords: international law, intermediary, mediation, dispute, conflict.