ADR Centre cautions against unregulated dispute resolution on live radio and TV
The Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Centre has issued a strong caution against the growing practice of resolving disputes on electronic media platforms, particularly through live broadcast sessions, warning that such activities risk undermining the integrity of professional ADR practice.
In a press statement signed by the Acting Executive Secretary of the ADR Centre, Dr. Francis Kofi Korankye-Sakyi, the Centre expressed deep concern that individuals and media platforms are purporting to engage in dispute resolution publicly without adherence to established legal and professional processes.
While acknowledging the important role of the media in promoting access to justice and public awareness, the Centre said ADR is a recognised professional and legal practice governed by established principles, procedures, and ethical standards.
“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 statement read.
The Centre warned that public or media-driven dispute resolution sessions, especially those conducted without due regard to confidentiality, consent, and procedural fairness, risk exposing parties to undue public scrutiny, reputational harm, and outcomes that are not legally binding or enforceable.
The ADR Centre, which serves as the regulatory body overseeing the development and practice of ADR, said it would take appropriate steps to address and curb unregulated and unethical ADR-related activities.
To this end, the Centre said it would 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).
The Centre 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 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,” the statement concluded.
