The Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Centre intends to clamp down on media organisations engaged in dispute resolution without recourse to established legal and professional ADR processes.
Acknowledging the important role of the media in promoting access to justice and public awareness, it expressed concerns about the growing non-compliance.
According to the Centre, public or media-driven dispute resolution sessions, especially those conducted without due regard to confidentiality, consent, and procedural fairness, risk undermining the integrity of ADR practice.
It observes that such activities may also expose parties to undue public scrutiny, reputational harm, and outcomes that are not legally binding or enforceable.
“Mechanisms such as negotiation, mediation and arbitration are not arbitrary engagements; they require the involvement of trained and certified practitioners to ensure fairness, confidentiality, impartiality, and legal enforceability of outcomes.”
“The ADR Centre, as the regulatory body overseeing the development and practice of ADR, hereby serves notice that it will take appropriate steps to address and curb unregulated and unethical ADR-related activities. The Centre remains committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism within the ADR industry.”
The Centre plans to engage key stakeholders, including the National Media Commission and the Ghana Journalists Association, on how media institutions can responsibly support and promote ADR without contravening its core principles and ethical requirements as enshrined in Ghana’s Alternative Dispute Resolution Act, 2010 (Act 798).
It further encouraged members of the public to seek dispute resolution services through the ADR Centre or duly recognised private ADR institutions, where qualified professionals ensure that processes are conducted in accordance with the law and best practices.
“ADR remains a vital tool for the peaceful, efficient, and confidential resolution of disputes. Its credibility and effectiveness must be protected through strict adherence to professional standards.”
Story by Hajara Fuseini
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Source:
opemsuo.com