By Jacqueline L. Dennis
MONROVIA — The President of the Liberian National Bar Association (LNBA) Cllr. Bornor M. Varmah has lauded the Ministry of Justice for organizing a training workshop on arbitration, describing it as a timely and relevant initiative aimed at strengthening the country’s justice system.
Speaking at the Temple of Justice during the opening of the workshop, the LNBA representative extended warm greetings on behalf of the Bar and commended the Ministry for leading efforts to promote Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in Liberia.
He emphasized that the conversation around arbitration should not be seen as a mere academic exercise, but as a “call to reimagine how justice can be delivered in ways that are efficient, affordable, and accessible to all Liberians.”
Highlighting the evolution of Liberia’s justice sector, he noted that while the courts have traditionally served as the primary avenue for dispute resolution, and public defense has expanded access to justice for vulnerable citizens, it is now time to fully recognize Arbitration as the third layer of access to justice in the country.
The Bar leader further underscored the importance of establishing a holistic arbitration framework — one that integrates domestic and international best practices, guarantees impartiality, and is supported by an enabling legal and institutional environment. Such a system, he said, would not only ease the burden on the courts but also boost investor confidence and promote social harmony.
“The LNBA stands ready to collaborate with the Ministry of Justice, the Judiciary, and all relevant stakeholders to mainstream arbitration and other ADR mechanisms in legal practice, business relations, and community dispute management,” he affirmed. He concluded by urging participants to take full advantage of the workshop to enhance their understanding and application of arbitration, emphasizing that a justice system must not only decide cases but also resolve conflicts, restore relationships, and reinforce confidence in the rule of law.
