Companies urged to adopt mediation to resolve disputes

In a bid to promote cooperation and harmony in the labour environment, organisations have been encouraged to use mediation to address workplace and labour disputes.

Dr. Bernice Welbeck, Director of Administration and Human Resources at the National Labour Commission (NLC), recommended mediation as an effective means for resolving work-related conflicts.

She emphasised that the adverse effects of labour unrest make it essential for organizations to proactively prevent or manage disputes through professional mediation, a key mechanism under Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR).

Speaking on labour dispute management and industrial relations development during the 5th Mediation Expedition at Aburi Gardens, Dr. Welbeck highlighted the importance of adopting mediation as an initial response to workplace issues.

This annual mediation expedition, organized by the Gamey and Gamey ADR Institute and ADR Daily, brought together professionals for a three-day intensive mediation skills training, themed “Shaping Sustainable Peaceful Futures Through Quality ADR Practice.”

The event, which concluded on Saturday, was part of the Professional Executive Master of ADR (PEM.ADR) training by the Gamey and Gamey ADR Institute. It featured practical mediation simulations, community outreach for ADR awareness, and professional networking.

Dr. Welbeck explained that early mediation can prevent disputes from escalating to the NLC, saving time, costs, and minimizing disruptions.

“Mediation provides a timely and constructive approach to handling labour disputes, allowing parties to engage in open dialogue and reach mutually beneficial solutions before conflicts intensify,” she noted.

She also urged mediators to maintain professionalism, particularly in workplace disputes, and to provide all parties with ample opportunity to share their perspectives, as this step fosters resolution.

“When parties feel heard, they are more inclined to participate in meaningful discussions, which lies at the core of successful mediation,” Dr. Welbeck added.

Praising the Mediation Expedition’s objectives, Dr. Welbeck commended the initiative as essential for developing skilled mediators who will drive the growth of Ghana’s ADR industry.

She applauded participants for their dedication to ADR, which would aid in fostering a culture of peaceful conflict resolution in Ghana.

The event, supported by Consolidated Bank Ghana (CBG), Golden Exotics, Millennium Insurance, and HPW Fresh & Dry, underscored the critical role of ADR, particularly mediation, in resolving conflicts across Ghana and beyond.

In his closing remarks, Mr. Austin Gamey, founder of the Institute, called on mediators to play an active role in addressing pressing community and institutional conflicts, such as the Bawku chieftaincy dispute, which he believes requires a mediation approach.

“Society relies on mediators for sustainable peace, and we must add value in our homes, organizations, and communities by helping to manage or resolve disputes,” he said.

Lizzy-Ann Kwagbedzi, Deputy CEO of Gamey and Gamey Group, encouraged participants to leverage their newly acquired skills to become catalysts for change within their organizations.

She pointed out that Ghana’s rapidly expanding ADR sector needs capable professionals to deliver high-quality ADR services, enhancing public trust in the industry.

She assured that the Institute will continue to support the sector’s growth by producing proficient ADR professionals to aid in dispute resolution.

Expressing appreciation for the event sponsors, Mr. Edmund Mingle, Editor of ADR Daily and Event Coordinator, noted that their support has helped advance the mission of promoting ADR as a sustainable conflict resolution method in Ghana.

He acknowledged that the expedition provided a valuable opportunity for participants to enhance their mediation skills, aligning with the sponsors’ shared commitment to fostering peace and development in the country.