Non-judicial forms of protection in the settlement of labor disputes

The article investigates the current transformations in the sphere of labour relations in Ukraine, driven by internal reforms and external challenges, notably the war. Emphasis is placed on the urgent need to develop new, more flexible and effective mechanisms for protecting the labour rights of both employees and employers. The legal nature and essence of non-judicial forms of labour dispute resolution are analysed, with mediation occupying a central role. The article outlines the key features of mediation, such as voluntariness, consensus, confidentiality, costeffectiveness, neutrality, and promptness. A comparative analysis with international practice demonstrates the high effectiveness of mediation in resolving labour conflicts. It is established that the adoption of the Law of Ukraine «On Mediation» and a number of amendments to the Labour Code of Ukraine have laid a legislative foundation for the application of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. At the same time, the article draws attention to the limited practical use of mediation due to low legal awareness and underdeveloped legal culture among the parties involved in labour relations. The study substantiates the expediency of a comprehensive implementation of mediation and other alternative mechanisms for the protection of labour rights, in line with European standards of justice. Proposals are made to promote mediation, enhance the involvement of trade unions and social dialogue institutions in the procedures of labour dispute resolution. The comprehensive implementation of mediation and other alternative forms of protection will help to create a fair, humane and effective labour dispute resolution system in Ukraine, based on European standards of justice. Studying foreign experience and adapting effective practices will help strengthen the national system of alternative labour dispute resolution.