Traditional Dispute Resolution Mechanisms and Access to Justice in Central African Republic: A Theoretical Framework

Traditional dispute resolution mechanisms play a significant role in resolving conflicts within communities across Central African Republic (CAR). These traditional practices often involve local leaders and customs that have been used for centuries to mediate disputes. The study employs a qualitative approach to analyse existing literature and interviews with local legal practitioners and community leaders. It also includes secondary data from official government reports and court records. While traditional dispute resolution mechanisms can significantly improve access to justice, they face challenges such as lack of recognition by the state and insufficient funding. Governments in CAR should strengthen the integration of traditional practices into formal legal systems and provide more resources to customary courts. Training for local leaders is also recommended to ensure fair and effective mediation processes.