Mondulkiri Province Receives 122 Out-of-Court Dispute Cases in 12 Months, Signaling Increased Public Trust

The National Authority for the Resolution of Disputes Outside of Court (ADR) in Mondulkiri Province has received a total of 122 dispute cases in the 12 months since its establishment, indicating a growing public understanding and confidence in out-of-court dispute resolution mechanisms. According to Mr. Iem Bunly, Head of the ADR Office in Mondulkiri Province, the cases received include 31 land disputes, 66 loan contract disputes, 13 family disputes, 3 labor disputes, 6 civil contract disputes, 1 other contract dispute, and 2 miscellaneous disputes. Of the total 122 cases, 56 have been resolved, while 65 are still under processing. Mr. Bunly clarified that the ADR handles only civil disputes. The majority of submitted cases involve land, marital issues, debt, contracts, and inter-personal conflicts, which are mediated based on principles of voluntariness, justice, and mutual understanding. Notably, citizens do not incur any fees for these services. Criminal cases are outside the ADR's jurisdiction, unless specifically permitted by law in special circumstances. Mr. Bunly considers the reception of 122 cases in just one year a positive sign of increased public trust in the out-of-court dispute resolution mechanism, which can help save time, reduce costs, and maintain good community relations. He urged for further dissemination of the benefits of out-of-court dispute resolution to all residents of Mondulkiri Province, especially ethnic minorities, to enhance their awareness and access to efficient and rapid justice services at the local level, emphasizing that these services are free of charge.