Blockchain and Smart Contracts: Revolutionising Mediation?

Date: Wednesday, 22 May 2024, 19:00 - 20:00 Location: Online Only Member cost: £0 (including VAT) Non-member cost: £0 (including VAT)

Charles Ho Wang Mak & Dr Joseph Mante

Robert Gordon University

Today's world is buzzing with technological breakthroughs, and this wave of innovation is dramatically changing how we resolve disputes. In this talk, we dive into the world of blockchain technology and smart contracts, exploring how they could be game changers in mediation. Imagine a system where disputes, especially in business, can be avoided or settled quickly and transparently. In particular, blockchain and smart contracts streamline the mediation process, making it more efficient and less costly. That's what these technologies promise. However, it's not all smooth sailing; there are hurdles to overcome. We need laws that keep up with technology, education that empowers people to use these tools, and technological advancements to ensure everything works smoothly. This talk explores these challenges and argues that with the right approach, blockchain and smart contracts could fundamentally transform how we handle mediation.

Charles Ho Wang Mak is a Lecturer in Law at the Law School of Robert Gordon University. He is also a Fellow at the Transatlantic Technology Forum at Stanford University, and a Research Affiliate at SovereigNet, within The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University. His academic and professional work spans multiple institutions, reflecting a deep commitment to dispute resolution and technology policy.

Dr. Joseph Mante serves as a Principal Lecturer (Research) at the Law School of Robert Gordon University. He is recognised as a Senior Fellow at Advance HE, denoting his significant contributions to higher education research and leadership. Dr. Mante's academic pursuits and professional expertise are well respected, particularly in the spheres of arbitration and dispute resolution.