The Role of Traditional Dispute Resolution Mechanisms in Access to Justice in Cape Verde: A Comparative Law Study

Cape Verde is an archipelagic nation in the Atlantic Ocean with a rich cultural heritage that includes traditional dispute resolution mechanisms such as mediation and arbitration. A comparative legal analysis will be employed, examining existing literature on both formal and informal dispute resolution systems in Cape Verde, as well as similar contexts in other jurisdictions. Traditional dispute resolution mechanisms are widely used but often underutilized by the population, especially in rural areas where access to justice is more challenging. While traditional methods offer a culturally sensitive and accessible alternative to formal legal systems, they require further integration into mainstream justice structures to enhance their effectiveness. The government should promote awareness campaigns about these mechanisms and provide training for local mediators. Additionally, there should be enhanced collaboration between traditional and modern judicial bodies.