Mitigating corruption in informal justice systems: NGO experiences in Bangladesh and Sierra Leone

Abstract

Informal justice systems are the principal mechanism for dispute resolution in many societies, but they suffer from two drawbacks. First, in individual cases, well-off and/or well-connected individuals may engage in transactional corruption, distorting justice processes and outcomes. Second, over time, elites may use their control over these systems to perpetuate their power, status, and financial advantage, resulting in systematic unfairness that is closely linked to transactional corruption. As shown by experiences in Bangladesh and Sierra Leone, nongovernmental organisations often can work with, adapt, or modify informal justice systems to reduce corruption and unfairness and increase positive development outcomes.