"Alternative dispute resolution" (ADR) has an entrenching role in the history of dispute resolution. With the passage of time, ADR has emerged as an institutionalized part of judicial systems around the globe. Alternative Dispute Resolution comprises various approaches for resolving disputes ranging from negotiation between the two parties, a multiparty negotiation, through mediation, consensus building, to arbitration and adjudication. The rising popularity of ADR can be explained by the increasing caseload of traditional courts, the perception that ADR imposes fewer costs than litigation, a preference for confidentiality, etc.

The International Judicial Conference 2012 will provide a forum to explore the opportunities to promote and encourage use of ADR and highlight its importance in decreasing the workload on courts; to chalk out strategies for effective implementation of ADR mechanisms by sharing international best practices to review existing laws to determine compliance with model laws on ADR.