The Faculty of Law at Universitas Gadjah Mada (FH UGM) has once again distinguished itself on the international stage. The FH UGM delegation -- comprising Cindy Irthania (2023), Rifada Khalida Chaerunie (2023), and Krishna Rajendra Gunawan (2024) -- claimed the Runner-Up Best Mediator award, won by Cindy Irthania, at MediateGuru's 6th Virtual International Mediation Competition.
The competition was organized by the University of Kent and Swansea University from April 10 to 12, 2026, conducted entirely online. The event is one of the leading international mediation competitions, bringing together students from countries around the world to resolve simulated cross-jurisdictional disputes.
In the competition, participants were presented with a range of international conflicts dominated by commercial disputes - including cargo delivery, international trade contracts, and cross-border commercial relationships. Each team was required not only to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the legal issues involved, but also to lead with communication skills, negotiation, and empathy in reaching constructive and sustainable solutions.
Competing against 44 teams from 10 countries across the globe, the FH UGM team delivered a competitive and consistent performance throughout the competition. Each round provided a proving ground for analytical capacity, mediation strategy, and resilience in the face of complex conflict dynamics.
Notably, the competition took place in the middle of the Mid-Term Examination (UTS) period. Despite the intense academic demands, all three delegates maintained a high level of dedication and professionalism - reflecting strong time management skills and the firm commitment that defines students of FH UGM.
The full preparation and competition process was guided by Herliana, S.H., M.ComLaw., Ph.D., who provided strategic direction and coaching throughout. This support was one of the key factors in the FH UGM delegation's success on the international stage.
This achievement is a source of pride not only for FH UGM, but also demonstrates that Indonesian students are capable of competing at the global level in the field of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). The competition was a valuable learning experience for developing critical thinking, cross-cultural communication, and peaceful dispute resolution skills.
This achievement also aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) -- particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), through the development of students' academic and practical capacities at the international level; SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions), by emphasizing the importance of peaceful, effective, and inclusive dispute resolution; and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), through global collaboration in the strengthening of legal education and a culture of cross-national dialogue.
Author: Krishna Rajendra Gunawan (Delegation)
