Evaluating the Role of Technology-Powered Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in a Post-Pandemic Africa

Technology-powered ADR sometimes referred to as Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) is the integration of technology in ADR mechanisms to resolve disputes efficiently and expeditiously. It involves a neutral and impartial third party who facilitates the resolution of both online and offline disputes between parties through a digital space. Some of the commonest ODR mechanisms include the e-negotiation, e-mediation, and e-arbitration. ODR mechanisms have existed since the 1990s but is until the COVID-19 that they have gained momentum. This is because the pandemic restrictions on movement and physical interactions have paved way for online interactions. Technology has facilitated the continuity of our regular lives through telework, telemedicine, food delivery, logistics, remote learning, and contactless payments. When people interact, disputes and disagreements are bound to happen, thus prompting the use of digital solutions in ADR mechanisms to resolve disputes.This essay is presented in five parts. Part 1 is this brief introduction to ODR. Part 2 evaluates the role of ODR as a catalyst for change in e-commerce and trade in post-pandemic Africa. Part 3 assesses the role of ODR as a catalyst of change in the justice sector post-pandemic. Lastly, part 4 offers some recommendations while part 5 concludes this paper