Ulema Can Play Key Role In Resolving Social Disputes: Ayesha Rasool
Religious scholars can play a significant role in resolving social and family disputes by leveraging their trusted positions within communities to encourage parties to settle differences through mutual consent and reconciliation, said Ayesha Rasool, Senior Consultant (Research & Opinion), Ministry of Law and Justice.
ISLAMABAD, (APP – UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 20th Aug, 2026)
Addressing the inaugural ceremony of a 40-hour Certified Civil, Commercial and Shariah-Integrated Mediation Training Programme at COMSTECH, she emphasized the importance of mediation and reconciliation as preferable methods before going to court for family and social disputes.
The five-day training programme, organized by the International Mediation and Arbitration Centre (IMAC), Ministry of Law and Justice, in collaboration with the OIC Arbitration Centre (OIC-AC), Türkiye, runs from August 20 to 24. This is Pakistan’s first such programme aimed at equipping Ulema and religious scholars with professional mediation skills grounded in reconciliation and Shariah principles.
Rasool noted that consulting religious scholars, elders, and community leaders for dispute resolution is a tradition dating back before the establishment of courts. Therefore, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) should not be limited to judicial settings but should also involve Ulema and community leaders.
She drew attention to the increasing number of family disputes, citing over 45,000 cases related to divorce and family issues registered since January 2026—an average of around 300 cases daily.
The training covers fundamental mediation principles, negotiation skills, dispute analysis, documentation, and Shariah-compliant reconciliation procedures. Developed according to international standards, the curriculum includes practical exercises, case studies, and group discussions.
Upon completion, participants will be certified mediators equipped to apply their knowledge in their communities for peaceful dispute resolution and contributing to societal peace.
Rasool urged participants not to view the training as merely a means to obtain certificates but rather as an opportunity to practically implement their skills for the betterment of their communities.
Dr Atta-ur-Rehman, former Federal Secretary for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, highlighted the significance of mediation training in promoting peaceful dispute settlement. Representing the OIC, he expressed his organization’s commitment to supporting such initiatives.
