The Relationship Between Formal and Informal Justice Systems

Informal justice is an important mechanism of delivering justice; over 80 percent of disputes are resolved through informal justice mechanisms in some countries. The informal justice system is referred to different names in different countries: In Bangladesh it is called Shalish and disputes have been resolved through this process for hundreds of years. Around 60 to 70 percent disputes are resolved through Shalish. In Afghanistan it is called Shuras and Jirgas in Burundi the bashingantahe and in Somalia it is called the Xeer. Jirga and Shura (assembly of elders) in Afghanistan have resolved social economic cultural political religious conflicts and disputes over centuries.