Access to Local Formal Justice: Exploring Barriers and Solutions for Disadvantaged Groups in Nepal

This exploratory project investigates barriers limiting access to local formal justice systems for disadvantaged groups in rural Nepal, where formal and informal dispute resolution mechanisms operate in parallel. We will first examine the capacity of majority female-led judicial committees (JCs) and ward-level mediation centers, which are unevenly implemented across localities.

On the demand side, we will explore how lack of knowledge, familiarity, beliefs about the system, and social norms affect marginalized groups' use of formal justice options. During travel, we will meet with potential NGO and government partners; conduct focus groups with rural community members; interview village leaders and judicial representatives; collect data on disputes handled in formal and informal systems; and survey rural households. Findings from this phase will inform the design of a future randomized controlled trial (RCT) aimed at improving the capacity of local judicial institutions. This work will guide the development of capacity-building interventions and complementary programs to address demand-side constraints, while piloting measurement strategies, particularly on dispute resolution in the informal system. Pro Public, an NGO with extensive experience in building judicial capacity, will support this exploratory phase and discuss potential collaborations. Social Sciences Baha will serve as a data collection partner and provide in-kind Co-PI time.