Alternative Dispute Resolution in Ethiopia : Problems of the Recent Legislative Reform

Since June 2018, Ethiopia has undergone vast legislative reforms. Among these reforms are the amendments to laws regulating Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in the country. With the purpose of promoting ADR, the country amended pre-existing laws, enacted new laws, and ratified international instruments. However, the laws exhibit significant substantive and legislative problems. Having identified these problems through a textual analysis of the laws, this article examines the source of the problems by looking into the legislative process adopted in drafting and enacting these laws. It also discusses the results obtained from a survey conducted from data obtained from thirty-three (33) participants. The article recommends the need to equip drafters and legislators with the necessary legislative skills and to be cognizant of the subject matter they legislate upon. Furthermore, the article highlights the centrality of sufficient public consultation and discussion with experts prior to the enactment of laws and the need for the existence of a central organ that checks the constitutionality, coherence with other laws, and consistency of the use of terms