On February 18, 2026, the Hawaii Mediation Center announced a significant expansion of its services to include online dispute resolution for residents across the islands. This move comes in response to the increased demand for virtual mediation services due to the ongoing global pandemic and the growing need for alternative methods of conflict resolution.The Hawaii Mediation Center, which has been providing in-person mediation services for over two decades, has decided to embrace technology and adapt to the changing times by offering online mediation sessions to clients. This new service will allow individuals and businesses to resolve their conflicts remotely, without the need to meet in person.According to the Executive Director of the Hawaii Mediation Center, Karen Tachibana, the decision to expand their services to include online dispute resolution was driven by the desire to make their services more accessible to a wider audience. "We understand that the traditional in-person mediation may not always be feasible for everyone, especially during these challenging times. By offering online mediation, we hope to provide a convenient and effective alternative for those seeking to resolve their disputes," Tachibana stated.The Hawaii Mediation Center has invested in state-of-the-art virtual mediation platforms to ensure the confidentiality and security of online sessions. Clients will have access to trained mediators who will facilitate the resolution of their disputes through video conferencing and other online tools.The expansion of services to include online dispute resolution has been met with enthusiasm from both clients and mediators alike. Many individuals and businesses have already expressed interest in utilizing this new service, citing the convenience and flexibility of virtual mediation sessions.In addition to online mediation services, the Hawaii Mediation Center will continue to offer in-person mediation sessions for those who prefer face-to-face interactions. The center remains committed to providing high-quality mediation services to the residents of Hawaii and helping them resolve their conflicts in a peaceful and constructive manner.Overall, the expansion of the Hawaii Mediation Center's services to include online dispute resolution represents a significant step forward in the field of conflict resolution in the state. By embracing technology and adapting to the changing needs of their clients, the center is poised to continue making a positive impact on the communities it serves for years to come.