PESHAWAR: The Peace & Justice Network (PJN), in collaboration with the UNDP Pakistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police, organized a Hazara Divisional Consultative Workshop aimed at identifying actionable recommendations to Strengthen Dispute Resolution Councils (DRCs) under EU funded Deliver Justice Project.
DRCs established by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police (KP) are pivotal in addressing the challenges of access to justice, particularly for marginalized communities ensuring grassroots justice. These councils serve as alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, offering a platform for resolving conflicts efficiently and amicably without resorting to formal court systems. Strengthening these councils is crucial for enhancing access to justice as many individuals, especially in rural and marginalized communities, face barriers in accessing formal courts due to high costs, procedural complexities, and geographic constraints. Also, DRCs play an important role in reducing the burden on courts, promoting timely and cost-effective dispute resolution mechanisms as well as playing a critical role in conflict prevention and social cohesion promoting peacebuilding.
The workshop served as a platform for diverse stakeholders, including representatives from the Dispute Resolution Councils (DRCs) from Haripur, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Battagram, Torghar, and Kohistan (Upper, Lower and Kolai Pallas), judiciary, law enforcement, civil society, and community leaders, to share insights and develop strategies for enhancing the capacity and efficiency of DRCs. The primary objective was to create a comprehensive action plan to empower DRCs as an effective mechanism for resolving disputes and improving access to justice across the region.
During opening sessions Syed Raza Ali CEO Peace & Justice Network and Ms. Salma Zeb Legal Aid & ADR Officer, Rule of Law Program UNDP Pakistan highlighted that the strengthening of Dispute Resolution Councils (DRCs) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is crucial to enhancing their ability to serve communities effectively in resolving disputes. By addressing existing gaps—such as inadequate resources, limited training for members, lack of inclusivity, and insufficient public awareness—DRCs can become more efficient, accessible, and responsive to community needs. Strengthened DRCs not only provide timely and cost-effective justice but also play a vital role in reducing the burden on formal courts and fostering social harmony at the grassroots level.
The Mr. Muhammad Shoaib, District & Session Judge Abbottabad, presented a comprehensive framework for strengthening Dispute Resolution Councils (DRCs) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He emphasized that DRCs are a vital component of the justice system, offering alternative, community-driven solutions for resolving disputes efficiently and amicably. Strengthening these councils builds trust between communities and the justice system, helping to bridge governance gaps. By involving community members such as elders and respected local figures in mediation, DRCs promote local ownership of the justice process and foster stronger community ties. The DPO Abbottabad, Mr. Umar Tufail, highlighted the pivotal role of Dispute Resolution Councils (DRCs) in fostering peace and justice within local communities during his keynote address. He emphasized that DRCs not only ease the workload of formal courts but also offer a culturally sensitive and accessible avenue for dispute resolution. Enhancing these councils is crucial for ensuring fair and equitable access to justice for all. Ms. Nida Khan Advocate, PJN Rule of Law Advisor highlighted the importance of gender responsive DRC system in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and making it more inclusive.
DPO Mansehra, Mr. Shafiullah Khan Gandapur, in his keynote address, emphasized the vital role played by DRC members in promoting justice and resolving disputes. He acknowledges their volunteer services and pledged his full support in addressing the challenges faced by DRCs. Recognizing their significance, he recommended raising the issue of budget allocation with the provincial government and the chief secretary. Additionally, he suggested organizing a multi-stakeholder coordination workshop to foster effective collaboration among DRCs, the judiciary, and other relevant institutions.
During the workshop, participants discussed challenges faced by DRCs in delivering justice and maintaining community trust as well as best practices for alternative dispute resolution tailored to the socio-cultural context of Hazara Division. They also presented recommendations for capacity building, inclusivity, and resource mobilization to strengthen DRCs. The workshop outcomes included actionable recommendations to enhance legal and procedural frameworks governing DRCs, increase inclusivity, with a focus on women and other vulnerable communities’ participation in dispute resolution processes. Participants also recommended providing technical and operational training to DRC members and to improve collaboration between DRCs and formal justice institutions for seamless coordination.
The consultative workshop concluded with a shared commitment to advancing the proposed action plan and ensuring continued support for DRCs. In his concluding remarks, DPO Mansehra, Mr. Shafiullah Khan, reaffirmed the police’s commitment to strengthening Dispute Resolution Councils (DRCs). He also expressed gratitude to the Peace & Justice Network and UNDP Pakistan for spearheading this initiative.
