A recent study conducted in Estonia explored the efficacy of the national family mediation service, examining whom it helps and potential improvements. One notable conclusion is that the service's name is misleading, suggesting a need for a renaming to better reflect its purpose. Doris Pavlov, the project leader and analyst from the University of Tartu's Applied Research Centre, stated that while the service has generally met its intended goals, there is substantial room for improvement in clarity, quality, and the involvement of children in the process.

The research commenced in the fall of 2024, approximately three years after the family mediation service was launched. Pavlov explained that in-depth impact analyses are typically commissioned after a few years of service provision to assess both effective and less efficient aspects of the service. This timing, according to Pavlov, allows for substantive improvements to be made before the system becomes too rigid. The analysis aimed to evaluate the overall effectiveness of the service by looking at its primary beneficiaries, seeking to understand the real impact of the mediation provided.

This study not only highlights the ongoing development of the family mediation service in Estonia but also emphasizes the importance of clear communication regarding its purpose and effectiveness. The recommendations stemming from the research might lead to a significant rebranding of the service, which could, in turn, enhance its accessibility and usability for families in need of mediation. The findings could influence policy changes and improvements in how mediation services are perceived and implemented in Estonia, benefiting the families that rely on such services for conflict resolution.