AIDAN is a non-profit association created in 2023 and based in Vigneux-sur-Seine, France. Our name stands for a commitment to mediation, solidarity, and civic engagement. We exist to foster a more inclusive, peaceful, and collaborative society through the practice of mediation, the promotion of access to rights, and the support of local life projects.
We work within and alongside communities to resolve conflicts, improve dialogue, and encourage the active participation of all individuals—particularly those whose voices are often overlooked. Our areas of intervention include public spaces, collective housing, youth environments, public transport, and broader community initiatives.
At AIDAN, we believe that social cohesion is not something that happens on its own. It is built—carefully, deliberately, and collectively—through listening, understanding, and trust. Mediation is at the heart of that process.
Our Story and Foundation
AIDAN was born from a shared observation: that in today’s world, everyday conflict is everywhere, but meaningful communication is rare. Minor disputes in apartment buildings, misunderstandings in public spaces, generational or cultural tensions, or confusion around access to basic services—all these challenges can fracture communities and lead to isolation, exclusion, or escalating conflict.
Rather than seeing these situations as problems, we saw them as opportunities: moments where dialogue could replace confrontation, where listening could replace judgment, and where people could come together to find common ground. That is why we created AIDAN—to offer individuals and communities real tools to transform tension into connection.
Since our foundation, we have remained committed to these core principles, evolving our work to meet the needs of our changing environment while remaining deeply rooted in local realities.
Our Philosophy and Beliefs
We believe in mediation not only as a technical process but as a human-centered philosophy. Mediation recognizes that each individual has a voice worth hearing and that most people, when given the right environment, are capable of resolving their own disputes with dignity and fairness.
We also believe that access to rights is essential to both personal and collective wellbeing. Too often, people are denied or discouraged from accessing the services and protections they are entitled to—whether due to lack of information, administrative barriers, or social inequality. At AIDAN, we help bridge that gap.
Finally, we are deeply invested in local life. Healthy communities don’t just happen—they are the result of active participation, shared responsibility, and strong social networks. We support local projects that strengthen these bonds, empower individuals, and promote social inclusion.
Our Work in Practice
Our work takes many forms, but it always begins with listening.
We engage with individuals, families, groups, and institutions to facilitate communication, resolve conflicts, and prevent future misunderstandings. We intervene directly in areas such as:
- Public Spaces: We help manage tensions in parks, streets, and other shared spaces where different populations meet.
- Collective Housing: We provide mediation services for tenants, neighbors, and housing authorities to ease conflicts and improve cohabitation.
- Access to Rights and Services: We support individuals in navigating administrative systems and obtaining the support they need.
- Youth and Participation: We create spaces for young people to express themselves, take initiative, and be heard.
- Transport and Mobility: We work in contexts where shared mobility leads to friction, offering dialogue-based solutions.
- Community Projects: We collaborate on local initiatives that promote cohesion, awareness, and empowerment.
Our approach is preventive, collaborative, and adaptable. We do not impose solutions; instead, we accompany people through their own problem-solving process, providing the structure, support, and tools needed to achieve lasting resolution.
Who We Work With
We work with a wide variety of individuals and partners:
- Residents facing ongoing tensions in their daily lives.
- Youth seeking expression, direction, or involvement in their community.
- Local associations and collectives looking for mediation or support.
- Municipalities and institutions in need of assistance managing conflict or facilitating participation.
- Professionals in housing, education, and social services who refer people to us or collaborate on joint efforts.
Regardless of the context, we aim to build trust, foster cooperation, and ensure that everyone involved is respected and heard.
Our Team
AIDAN is made up of a multidisciplinary team of mediators, coordinators, and volunteers who bring together expertise in law, social work, psychology, communication, and civic education. All our mediators are trained in active listening, conflict management, and ethical engagement.
What sets our team apart is not only their professional skills but their deep commitment to the human side of their work. Every interaction is an opportunity to learn, grow, and build peace—one conversation at a time.
We also maintain a network of partners and allies—other associations, municipalities, housing cooperatives, and public service providers—with whom we collaborate to expand our impact and address structural challenges.
Why It Matters
In a society increasingly marked by misunderstanding, polarization, and social fragmentation, the ability to talk and to listen—truly and respectfully—has never been more important. Mediation offers a concrete, effective, and accessible response to many of the everyday conflicts that erode trust and make life more difficult for everyone.
But beyond mediation, our work is about reclaiming the social fabric: reminding people that they belong, that their voice matters, and that peaceful coexistence is possible—not through force or hierarchy, but through mutual recognition and shared responsibility.
We do this one step at a time, working in the field, in the neighborhoods, with the people who need it most. And every success, no matter how small, brings us closer to a more inclusive and equitable future.
Looking Forward
As we look to the future, AIDAN is committed to strengthening its existing programs, developing new partnerships, and expanding its reach across other regions and communities.
We plan to:
- Offer more training and workshops in mediation and conflict prevention.
- Develop educational tools and resources for youth and families.
- Advocate for greater recognition of mediation as a public service.
- Continue supporting grassroots initiatives that promote access to rights and community development.
We know that challenges will arise. But we also know that with care, cooperation, and courage, communities can meet those challenges together—and thrive.
Get Involved
If our mission resonates with you, we invite you to connect with us. Whether you are seeking help, want to support our work, or simply wish to learn more, we are here to welcome you.
Visit us at:
58 Rue des Cèdres, 91270 Vigneux-sur-Seine
Write to us at:
admin@zihuy.com
Let’s build something better—together.