P2B Disputes
The EU Platform-to-Business Regulation
Regulation (EU) 2019/1150 promotes fairness and transparency in relationships between online intermediation services and the Business Users that depend on them.
Article 12: mediation
Article 12 establishes a framework in which relevant providers identify mediators with whom they are willing to engage in an attempt to reach an out-of-court settlement. It sets criteria concerning impartiality, independence, accessibility, affordability, timeliness and understanding of commercial relationships.
Article 13: specialised mediators
Article 13 encourages providers and their representative organisations or associations to establish organisations providing mediation services that satisfy the Article 12 criteria, taking particular account of the cross-border nature of online intermediation services.
A voluntary, non-adjudicative process
The parties remain in control of mediation. The Institution and Case Mediator do not impose a result, determine liability, issue sanctions or guarantee settlement. A proposed resolution remains non-binding unless the parties separately conclude a binding agreement.
Rights remain protected
Participation does not prevent court, arbitral, administrative or regulatory proceedings. Mediation does not itself stop limitation periods or provide interim relief. Parties remain responsible for preserving their rights and obtaining independent advice where needed.