The Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Centre has cautioned the public and media houses against the increasing practice of resolving disputes on live electronic media platforms without recourse to established legal and professional standards.
In a press statement signed by the acting Executive Secretary of the ADR Centre, Dr Francis Kofi Korankye-Sakyi on the topic, “Caution Against Improper Media-Based Dispute Resolution Activities”, the Centre stated that while it recognised the media’s role in promoting access to justice and public awareness, it was “deeply concerned” about individuals and media platforms that purported to settle disputes publicly without adherence to proper ADR processes.
Rising trend flagged
The Centre said it had observed a growing trend where dispute resolution activities were being conducted on electronic media, particularly through live broadcast sessions.
It explained that this meant parties were invited onto radio or TV to argue their cases before presenters or panellists who then pronounced outcomes.
It further emphasised that ADR was a recognised professional and legal practice governed by established principles, procedures and ethical standards.
It clarified that mechanisms such as negotiation, mediation and arbitration were not arbitrary engagements.
Rather, they required trained and certified practitioners to ensure fairness, confidentiality, impartiality, and legal enforceability of outcomes.
Risks highlighted
The Centre warned that public or media-driven sessions, especially those conducted without due regard to confidentiality, consent and procedural fairness, risked undermining the integrity of ADR practice.
It added that such activities could expose parties to undue public scrutiny, reputational harm, and outcomes that were not legally binding or enforceable.
Stakeholder engagement
As the regulatory body overseeing the development and practice of ADR, the Centre said it would take appropriate steps to address and curb unregulated and unethical ADR-related activities. It stated that it remained committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism within the industry.
To enforce standards, the Centre indicated that it would engage key stakeholders, including the National Media Commission and the Ghana Journalists Association, on how media institutions could responsibly support and promote ADR.
It stressed that such support must not contravene the core principles and ethical requirements enshrined in Ghana’s Alternative Dispute Resolution Act, 2010 (Act 798).
Public advised
The Centre further encouraged members of the public to seek dispute resolution services through the ADR Centre or duly recognised private ADR institutions.
It explained that qualified professionals at such institutions ensured processes were conducted in accordance with the law and best practices.
The statement concluded that ADR remained a vital tool for the peaceful, efficient and confidential resolution of disputes, adding that its credibility and effectiveness must be protected through strict adherence to professional standards.
It ended with the motto: Reconcile. Resolve. Rebuild.
Source:
www.graphic.com.gh