Abstract:
Conflict involves the struggle and disagreements between parties’. In this context,
conflict resolution and dispute resolution are terms often used interchangeably.
Historically, the concept of dispute originated from a crash among individuals. Ethiopia
has a rich tradition of practicing various methods for resolving disputes. These methods
have been referred to by different names in scholar work, such as unofficial law,
traditional justice system, famous non-state law, customary dispute resolution
mechanism, restorative justice, alternative dispute resolution, and popular dispute
resolution mechanism.
Study aims to explore, analyze, and reintroduce the values of the traditional dispute
resolution method known as saro medho in the context of protecting human rights.
Traditional dispute resolution existed trend of human rights, it had showed two main
characteristics. However, they also had their strengths and weaknesses. Elements such as
urban or rural setting, gender, social status, marital status, age, and education played a
role in these traditional systems, shaping their values and outcomes in terms of human
rights protection. Additionally, traditional dispute resolution mechanisms in study areas
were such that social gatherings and ceremonies brought peace, such as Masqala,
Shashiga, and Gimo, community elders, and sub-local area leaders.
Factors and causes encompassed issues of marginalization&discrimination, elders
involvement, fairness, governance, external authorities interferences, state intervention,
urbanization, resource scarcity, financial support, institutional influences.
The research utilized descriptive methods, including key informant interviews, focus
group discussions, and document analysis, to achieve its objectives. The primary causes
that led to the utilization of traditional dispute resolution mechanisms for human rights
promotion were often rooted in the absence of clearly support. In cases where support did
exist, it was often deemed ineffective or lacking authenticity. Even if it has support, it's
because it's fake.
