The Institute for Legal Research and Advocacy for Justice (ILRAJ) has recently submitted a comprehensive position paper on the Mediation Bill, 2023, to the Law Reform Commission of Sierra Leone. This initiative underscores ILRAJ’s dedication to enhancing access to justice within the country by advocating for effective dispute resolution mechanisms.
The proposed Mediation Bill aims to establish Mediation Centers across Sierra Leone, offering structured and cost-effective alternatives to traditional court proceedings. Mediation is recognized for its advantages such as reduced expenses, quicker resolutions, and the promotion of amicable settlements. ILRAJ’s recommendations concentrate on bolstering the Bill’s efficacy and inclusivity, addressing several key areas:
- Ensuring universal access to mediation services.
- Enhancing the synergy between centralized and regional Mediation Centers.
- Integrating customary practices into the formal mediation framework.
- Providing clear guidelines for transitioning between mediation, arbitration, and court processes.
- Enforcing international mediation agreements.
- Increasing public awareness and implementing rigorous mediator training programs.
- Securing sustainable funding for the Mediation Centers.
ILRAJ anticipates that these proposals will facilitate the successful implementation of the Mediation Bill, broadening the accessibility of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms across Sierra Leone. The position paper has been formally delivered to pertinent stakeholders, and ILRAJ eagerly anticipates collaborative efforts to advance the enactment of the Bill.
