RESTORATIVE JUSTICE IN PRACTICE: ASSESSING DISPUTANTS’ SATISFACTION WITH DRC ABBOTTABAD

Abstract

Dispute Resolution Councils (DRCs) were established as hybrid Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms as a response to the inefficiencies of formal state-led courts and informal justice mechanisms like Jirgas. Grounded in the framework of restorative justice, DRCs aim to actively engage stakeholders to reach a tailor-made resolution. This article aims to evaluate the effectiveness of DRC Abbottabad. To achieve the objective, the study builds upon the framework of restorative justice to assess disputants’ satisfaction with the DRCs proceedings. Employing a quantitative case study approach, primary data was collected from a sample of 27 DRC beneficiaries whose cases were heard in DRC Abbottabad in the year 2024. The respondents recorded their experiences through a structured survey based upon Likert Scale. Survey statements were designed in such a way as to align them with major aspects of restorative justice including active participation, fairness and neutrality, respectful treatment, restoration of relationships, etc. Results were analyzed descriptively using frequencies and percentages. While some areas such as reconciliation and restoration of relationships showed mixed results, overall findings suggest that DRC Abbottabad embodies the principles of restorative justice indicating that DRC Abbottabad is effective in concluding sustainable dispute resolutions.