An Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) expert with the Institute of Paralegal Training and Leadership Studies (IPTLS), Isaac Asare has explained the benefits of using mediation in promoting peace and harmony in society.
He said compared to the court system where a poor person cannot afford the services of a lawyer putting him at a disadvantage, the use of ADR offers disputing parties equal opportunity regardless of the status of an individual.
Mr. Asare was speaking on Adom TV’s morning show ‘Badwam’ on Thursday, March 10, 2022. He indicated that apart from swiftly resolving issues, ADR consolidates the cordialness between disputing factions.
The discussion forms part of a series of education on ADR under the United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID) funded Justice Sector Support Activity (JSSA).
The project is aimed at improving Ghana’s justice delivery system.
Mr. Asare entreated the public to go for ADR as the first resort to settle differences as it is cost-effective and also promotes friendliness.
“Most people go to court because they want a judgment pronounced in their favour but that does not promote peace. In court, there might be bitterness after a ruling and this may destroy the harmony between the parties. However, with ADR an understanding is reached and friendliness is promoted,” he explained.
He added, ‘if a party has been invited to partake in ADR and the person refuses, the matter can be taken to court to compel the person.’
The dispute resolution expert said avenues to seek ADR are many and disputing individuals could visit the courts, ITLS, and TUC, which are some of the places to easily access ADR.
USAID Justice Sector Support Activity
The USAID Justice Sector Support Activity (JSSA) aims at increasing citizen knowledge and access to Justice Sector services, strengthening advocacy interventions for accountability of key Justice Sector Institutions to improve justice delivery, and increasing citizens’ oversight and monitoring of criminal cases to enhance justice delivery.
