The Alternative Dispute Resolution Centre has warned against the growing trend of resolving disputes through live media broadcasts, cautioning that the practice risks undermining legal standards and public confidence in dispute resolution.
In a press statement issued on April 14, 2026, the Centre said it was “deeply concerned” about the increasing use of electronic media platforms—particularly live broadcast sessions—to handle disputes outside established legal and professional frameworks.
While acknowledging the media’s role in promoting access to justice and public awareness, the Centre stressed that such public-facing processes often bypass critical safeguards, including confidentiality, consent and procedural fairness.
“ADR is a recognised professional and legal practice governed by established principles, procedures and ethical standards,” the statement said, adding that processes such as negotiation, mediation and arbitration require trained and certified practitioners to ensure “fairness, confidentiality, impartiality, and legal enforceability of outcomes.”
The Centre warned that media-driven dispute resolution sessions risk exposing parties to undue public scrutiny and reputational harm, while also producing outcomes that are not legally binding or enforceable.
“Public or media-driven dispute resolution sessions… risk undermining the integrity of ADR practice,” it said.
It urged members of the public to instead seek dispute resolution services through the ADR Centre or duly recognised private ADR institutions, where qualified professionals ensure that processes comply with the law and best practices.
“ADR remains a vital tool for the peaceful, efficient, and confidential resolution of disputes,” the statement added, emphasising the need to protect its credibility through strict adherence to professional standards.
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