Sri Lanka to Expand Mediation Boards in Push for Legal Reform

COLOMBO (News 1st); From mounting case backlogs to a renewed push for community-based conflict resolution, Minister of Justice and National Unity Harshana Nanayakkara has outlined a bold strategy to transform Sri Lanka’s judicial landscape—starting with strengthening the country’s mediation system.

The Minister acknowledged the overwhelming volume of cases currently burdening the courts. 

“We all know how many cases are piling up in the judiciary,” he said. “Despite various policy decisions we’ve taken to reduce this, the truth is we must place greater emphasis on mediation as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism.”

Nanayakkara stressed that mediation offers a pathway to reduce the number of cases entering the formal court system, helping avoid further escalation and delays. “If not, the situation will worsen,” he warned.

He emphasized that the government has the resources to invest in public well-being, but lamented that funds are often lost to waste and corruption. “Let’s bring forward your new ideas. We are committed to doing this better,” he urged.

The Minister announced plans to expand the reach of mediation boards, currently operating in 16 districts, to 9 additional districts, specifically targeting land disputes. 

He also revealed that special mediation boards for financial disputes will be introduced to reduce the burden on courts dealing with monetary conflicts.

“Mediation must be recognized for what it truly is,” he said. “It’s not about winning or losing—it’s about resolution, relief, and restoring peace. In court, someone wins and someone loses. But in mediation, people walk away with calm and clarity.”