BackgroundA group of arbitrators and mediators first met in 1996 to consider the nature of the problems facing international dispute resolution. This led, on 12 August 1998, to the creation of a new, independent organisation to represent nation states from all the world’s regions and to promote the best standards of practice in international dispute resolution and conflict management. SICA-FICA is an international Charitable Foundation established under the laws of The Netherlands with its seat in The Hague. It is dedicated to the promotion of excellence in Arbitration, Alternative Dispute Resolution and related aspects of Good Governance through education and training. Its efforts are concentrated in the developing world. SICA-FICA operates either directly, through or in association with National Charities, Educational Institutions, affiliated Foundations and other organisations with compatible objectives throughout the World. It is unique in being the only international organisation whose central remit is on-the-ground commercial dispute-resolution training within the developing world. SICA-FICA identifies specific needs for education and training through the auspices of its Patrons, associated organisations and local supporters. Proposals are detailed to address these needs and, through sponsorship, teams of international experts are provided to advise and present training courses as required.
2005
In February 2005, Ian Pyper handed over as Chairman to Volker Heinz. Ian remains on the Board of Commissioners as he retires to his native British Columbia. He was the prime instigator for the setting up of the Foundation and has firmly led its progress through difficult early stages. We wish Ian a long and happy retirement close to his family while his advice will continue to be available to us. His experience of South-East Asia prompted our initial work in Indonesia and, thanks to his good counsel and assistance, we hope to build on this base to establish a Centre of Excellence for Dispute Resolution there in the near future.
This occasion also marks a significant point in our operations. Under Ian’s guidance, we have reviewed our approach to making our work available generally. We are now actively encouraging like-minded individuals to set up their own organisations to reflect our philosophy in their particular localities. Each of these will have access to the Boards of the Foundation, its Patrons, Academic Council, Training & Education Committee and Faculty and can call on the Foundation for assistance in mounting training events. We believe that regional autonomous participation will confirm long-term commitment and continuity within the collective ethos. As of March 2005, three such organisations are under active consideration, in El Salvador, India and Indonesia.
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