Abstract:
Delays in civil litigation remain a significant obstacle to justice delivery in Bangladesh,
burdening courts and prolonging the resolution of disputes. Alternative Dispute Resolution
(ADR) mechanisms, including mediation, arbitration, conciliation, and negotiation, present
effective strategies to address these delays by offering flexible, cost-effective, and expeditious
solutions outside traditional courtroom procedures. This research critically examines the role
of ADR in mitigating litigation delays, highlighting its scope, processes, and practical
applications within the Bangladeshi legal context.
The study delves into the efficacy of ADR in reducing case backlogs and fostering collaborative
dispute resolution while addressing key challenges such as lack of awareness, inadequate
institutional frameworks, and cultural resistance to non-litigious approaches. Through a critical
analysis of existing legislation, judicial practices, and comparative experiences from other
jurisdictions, the research underscores the potential of ADR to enhance access to justice in
Bangladesh. It emphasizes the need for comprehensive reforms, including increased mediator
and arbitrator training, public education initiatives, and stronger enforcement of ADR
outcomes to ensure sustainable progress.
