Strengthening non-formal channels of administration of justice : a component of the justice sector reform support project, USAID/Guatemala -- USAID project no. 520-0407 : final report covering period from July 1997 to June 1999

The project produced model conflict resolution programs that can now be replicated in other regions of the country. The model consists of two basic elements: (1) a set of conflict resolution techniques adaptable to a wide variety of cultural and institutional contexts; and (2) a methodology that stresses teamwork between judicial officials and community leaders in the practical application of these techniques. A team of North American and Nicaraguan consultants from NCSC and the Mediation in Nicaragua Project worked with Guatemalan partners to train 480 Guatemalan mediators, 153 of whom currently attend cases in 9 mediation centers. The project has created a database consisting of information about 733 mediations conducted in these centers. Each of the 9 centers has been incorporated into a preexisting government institution or community organization. The operation of these mediation centers has measurably improved the administration of justice in Quetzaltenango and Zacapa. The design, establishment, and administration of the centers has increased cooperation between local judicial officials and community leaders. These two concrete achievements contribute to the larger national project of creating a more inclusive and responsive democracy. (Author abstract, modified)