Roles of alternative dispute resolution and its impacts on rural community in Bangladesh

Purpose Justice, as a relative concept, can be achieved through several methods and practices. Among these, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) stands out as an effective mechanism to resolve disputes, ensuring justice with rigor. In the village of Hulhulia, Bangladesh, ADR has been practiced for nearly 200 years and has proven to be highly beneficial for the community. This study examines the roles, challenges and impacts of ADR in Hulhulia. Design/methodology/approach This study employs a quantitative approach to collect data from justice-seekers and assess their perceptions. A census survey conducted through structured questionnaire to get the perception of roles, impacts and challenges of ADR from the respondents. Findings The present study has found significant associations of the roles and challenges of ADR with impacts on the community. ADR has been instrumental in reducing complexities, ensuring access to justice, fostering peace and harmony and strengthening social capital. These positive outcomes have increased both individual satisfaction and community well-being. Despite facing several challenges, the ADR practices in Hulhulia continue to provide significant benefits to the people, offering a cost-effective and efficient way of resolving disputes. ADR practices in Hulhulia have facilitated the proper execution of justice and strengthen community bonds. Originality/value This successful execution demonstrates the potential for recreating this ADR model in other regions to achieve such effectiveness. The study indicates the importance of ADR not only as a tool for justice but also as a method to build inclusive and harmonious communities.