Traditional dispute resolution mechanisms have existed for centuries in Ethiopia, rooted in the cultural and religious fabric of its diverse societies. Systems such as Shimgilinna/Jaarsumma, Afocha, Gerebe, Gudumalee, and religious mediation have long been used to resolve conflicts, maintain peace, and promote reconciliation. These institutions emerged as community-driven justice tools long before the introduction of modern state courts.

However, under previous regimes influenced by a narrow view of modernization, formal justice often neglected and marginalized these indigenous institutions, regarding them as backward rather than complementary.

Findings from the HiiL Justice Needs Assessment in Ethiopia reveal that:

• Over 43% of disputes are addressed through customary or informal mechanisms rather than formal courts.
• People value these mechanisms for being accessible, affordable, and focused on reconciliation.
• Citizens express a strong trust in elders and religious leaders, but also want these systems better aligned with constitutional and human rights standards.