Individual disputes at the workplace: Alternative disputes resolution
April 2010
Comparative study [ 
size 251 kb ] - see also the Executive Summary [ 
size 44.78 kb ]
This report examines the use of alternative disputes resolution (ADR) as a means of settling individual workplace disputes before they go to a court hearing. The report begins with a broad definition of ADR, which involves the methods of conciliation, mediation and arbitration, further distinguishing between judicial and non-judicial forms of ADR. It goes on to examine the trends in ADR use and how workers gain access to such services. This is followed by an overview of people providing ADR services and a brief synopsis of social partner views on such procedures. The report concludes that while ADR usage is growing across Europe, it varies between individual countries. In general, ADR appears to be most successful in resolving ambiguous and complex disputes. Attitudes towards ADR seem to be becoming more positive, with advocates viewing it as a more speedy and cost-effective alternative to court proceedings.
The study was compiled on the basis of individual national reports submitted by the EIRO correspondents. The text of each of these national reports is available below. The reports have not been edited or approved by the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions. The national reports were drawn up in response to a questionnaire and should be read in conjunction with it.