FROM land rows to family feuds, Justice Minister Delroy Chuck says unresolved community conflicts are feeding the nation’s violence as he introduced plans for a national framework to promote alternative dispute resolution (ADR).

Tabling a concept paper in the House of Representatives on Tuesday, Chuck argued that too many everyday disagreements are escalating into criminal matters and overwhelming the courts. As such, Jamaica needs structured alternatives to settle disputes.

He told legislators that the proposed policy would expand mediation, arbitration and restorative justice across communities, schools, churches, and businesses, creating more accessible pathways to resolve conflicts without litigation.

“Today, I am pleased to present to this honourable House the concept paper entitled Advancing Justice Through Alternative Dispute Resolution for Jamaica. This concept paper outlines the Government’s intention to develop a national policy on ADR aimed at enhancing visibility and access to alternative means of settling disputes, thereby advancing and sustaining a more peaceful, secure and harmonious society,” Chuck said.

The minister painted a stark picture of how ordinary disputes are contributing to the wider crime problem, listing quarrels between neighbours, relatives, and business partners as triggers for violence.

“Strife involving neighbour and neighbour, families, relationships, land disputes, money, businesses, schools, even the churches, has contributed to the crime and violence affecting our society today — violence which shows no partiality in its choice of victims,” Chuck told the House.

Under the plan, existing justice centres would be strengthened and a wider range of ADR options promoted, including conciliation, adjudication, and negotiations. Chuck stressed that the approach is not intended to replace the courts but to complement them by diverting suitable matters away from already-burdened judges.

Acknowledging that Jamaica’s courts continue to struggle with heavy caseloads and lengthy delays, the minister also argued that earlier intervention could prevent minor disagreements from hardening into entrenched legal battles.

He urged a cultural shift in how Jamaicans respond to conflict, warning that the tradition of “fighting it out” is undermining social cohesion.

“Greater awareness, access and use of alternative dispute mechanisms, are imperative. We must change the mindset of our people in how we resolve conflicts, recognising that there are other meaningful and legally acceptable alternatives to fighting it out. ADR can be a critical driver in achieving social harmony,” Chuck declared.

Beyond crime reduction, he said a predictable and efficient dispute resolution system could boost investment and economic growth by giving businesses clearer options for settling commercial disagreements.

He added that stronger mechanisms for mediation could also play a role in peace-building within communities, particularly in family and neighbourhood disputes.

He described the proposal as a significant step toward a more flexible justice model that responds to the needs of ordinary citizens while encouraging the public to engage with the document, urging institutions across the island to study its recommendations.