The Strathmore Dispute Resolution Centre, based at Strathmore Law School, is a dispute resolution centre focusing on the promotion of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) as a form of access to justice between individuals, within groups, and in organizations.
In celebration of the burgeoning field of ADR in Africa, and in line with our mandate, we have organized our 1st Annual SDRC Research Colloquium 2024, on the theme “Alternative Dispute Resolution & the Future,” scheduled for 29th and 30th August 2024, at Strathmore Law School.
The colloquium aims to bring together scholars, practitioners, students, and relevant stakeholders in the field of dispute resolution to explore emerging trends in ADR, identify the underlying challenges facing the ADR industry, and provide innovative solutions to address the said challenges, to shape the future of ADR as a profession.
Please note that the registration of delegates is currently ongoing and can be accessed through https://forms.gle/ouGS5xtwSy2Xg5oc9.
For further information, please contact the convener, Daniel M. Nzeki through dnzeki@strathmore.edu or +254708871608.
Importance of the Colloquium
Over the years, the landscape of dispute resolution has undergone significant transformations due to technological advancements, globalization, evolving societal needs and divergence in legal frameworks the world over. Whereas the different methods of ADR have gained a huge recognition due to their effectiveness in resolving disputes-aside and apart from the mainstream judicial framework- the future of ADR practice presents both opportunities and challenges that require careful examination and proactive responses.
One fundamental facet that has a huge impact on the practice of ADR is the rapid pace of technological innovations and advancements which is revolutionizing the way disputes are resolved. Aspects such as Online Dispute Resolution (ODR), Artificial Intelligence (AI), blockchain technologies, Environmental Social Governance (ESG), among others are slowly reshaping the ADR landscape, by offering new avenues and systems geared towards the efficient, accessible, affordable, and acceptable ways of resolving disputes.
Consequently, the future of ADR practice intersects with the broader societal and legal trends, including increasing demands for access to justice, growing awareness of systemic inequalities, and the need for sustainable dispute resolution mechanisms in the face of unforeseen crises, such as climate change, environmental issues, cybersecurity, globalization, just to mention but a few.
In view of the Centre, these complex issues require interdisciplinary collaboration, innovative approaches, and forward-thinking strategies to ensure that ADR continues to meet the evolving needs of individuals, businesses, institutions, and communities. As such, the colloquium, will proffer a forum for collaboration, networking, and knowledge exchange.
Publication of Colloquium materials
As an institution playing a crucial role in promoting ADR in Kenya and the wider East Africa region, SDRC is committed to developing and advancing the capacity for individuals and organizations in the ADR space.
In that regard, select papers presented during the colloquium will be published in a Special Edition of the Strathmore Law Journal.
Sponsorship
In line with our commitment to foster collaboration within the ADR profession, we are actively seeking collaboration opportunities with like-minded stakeholders that share in our mission, vision, and values.
Consequently, we cordially invite stakeholders to partner with us by sponsoring and/or nominating delegates from their organizations to grace the event. Please see further information on sponsorship found in our sponsorship benefit package.
We are available for both physical and virtual meetings to discuss potential partnerships. Please contact us for further information.