The contribution of access to justice to conflicts resolution in post –genocide Rwanda: case of MAISON D`ACCESS à la justice (MAJ) in Musanze district

Abstract

This study aims at exploring the contribution of access to justice to conflict resolution in post Genocide Rwanda, the case of Maison d`accẽss à la justice (MAJ) in Musanze District. The study discussed the contribution of legal aid and legal representation in conflict resolution, the contribution of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in conflict resolution and the challenges that hinder the effectiveness of MAJ in accessing justice and conflict resolution. Access to justice theory and justice theory were used to show the relationship of the variables. To attain the objective, the researcher selectively uses a methodology that facilitates the easy collection of the data; which includes the documentary and interview .The data was well analyzed and interpreted using appropriate methods as explained in the Chapter Three. Key concepts and related theories are explained in Chapter two to prepare conceptually readers to understand the study. The findings in Chapter Four have revealed that the MAJ has been effective in helping people accessing justice, and there is even hope that if it continues in such a way; it will be more effective in few years to come where people are facilitated to resolve their conflict in harmony and live in peace. The proposed recommendations will definitely help in the future improved performance of MAJ in relation to conflict resolution. The findings will also help those who do not know the mechanism and different services rendered by MAJ. The study ends with a proposal of various areas for further researches whereby it is indicated that the contribution of MAJ is still a field to be researched on with a view to increasing people’s awareness about the mechanism and its contribution to conflict resolution.