The two-week training and consultation on Alternative Dispute Resolution, ADR, for Mangmis of seven north western Dzongkhags concluded yesterday.The President of the Bhutan National Legal Institute, Royal Law Project,Her Royal Highness Princess Sonam Dechan Wangchuck graced the closing ceremony.
Commonly known as Nangkha Nadrik, it is an alternative dispute resolution that would help people resolve disputes, especially civil in nature without having to go to the courts.
During the training, they were introduced to the concept and modules of ADR,saw discussions on prospects and expectation of ADR mechanism in future,communication skills and language used in the mediation, the role of mediator, ethics in mediation, drafting agreement and finalization of the agreement and signing.Some participants said the training was useful and timely.
“It gave us a lot of knowledge and skills. Although ADR existed in the past, we did not have the knowledge and skills but with the training we have the idea and knowledge to carry out Nangkha Nadrik,” said one of the participants.
At the closing Her Royal Highness Princess Sonam Dechan Wangchuck said that Nangkha Nadrik has been practiced in the country for many years. The practice seems to be disappearing as most ofthe cases which can be settled amicably are now brought to courts.
Her Royal Highness said elected leaders like Mangmis will have a greater responsibility in facilitating the settlement of misunderstanding and problems that may arise within family, neighbours and community.
Similar trainings will be organised for the Mangmis of the Eastern Dzongkhags in Monggar followed by a training in Gelephu for the South and Central Dzongkhags.