M.A. Thesis Defense: Umba Peter Bosco Lasuba

We cordially invite you to

Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Master of Arts Thesis Defense of  Umba Peter Bosco Lasuba (Conflict Analysis and Resolution).

FORUM SHOPPING FOR DISPUTE RESOLUTION IN MODERNISING POLITIES, THE CASE OF SOUTH SUDAN

Thesis Jury:

• Asst. Prof. Emre Hatipoğlu (Thesis advisor)
  
• Asst. Prof. Kerim Can Kavaklı 
• Prof. Nimet Beriker (Mardin Artuklu University, International Relations)

Date & Time : June 15, 2016 & 13:00

Place: Sabancı University, Minerva Han

This study investigates factors that influence disputants’ venue selection strategies and preferences in South Sudan where the role of informal dispute resolution systems has been recently replaced with legal mechanisms in modernizing polities.  The study is an attempt to solve the puzzle in the conflict resolution literature that portrays legal/modern ways of dispute resolution in a positive manner as opposed to informal mechanisms. To answer this puzzle, four key questions were asked: (1) In what specific instances (types of conflict) an individual resort to a specific conflict resolution venue?  (2) What are the major factors affecting venue selection?  (3) Which factors cause disagreement on venue preferences among the disputants? And (4), what disputants’ perceptions are regarding the effectiveness and efficiency of a particular dispute resolution venue. Using Non-probability quota sampling method, a sample of 287 surveys were conducted in three locations (Yei Town, Pakula Quarter Council and Mundu Boma). The findings indicate that disputants prioritize informal dispute resolution mechanisms when faced by less salient issues, but also in isolated cases such as murder, legal forums are preferred. And that, the most influential factor in the venue selection process is the perception that informal venues such as chiefs are well-equipped with knowledge and competence based on extensive experience working in traditional dispute resolution.