In a significant effort to promote Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) as a cornerstone of economic development and legal reform, SAARC Arbitration Council (SARCO), in collaboration with the Bangladesh International Arbitration Centre (BIAC), an insightful webinar titled “ADR and Bangladesh: Addressing Challenges and Exploring Opportunities in Trade and Commerce” was held 20 September 2025, at 4:00 PM (Bangladesh Time, GMT+6). The event drew legal luminaries, practitioners, and policymakers together in a robust conversation on the evolving role of ADR in Bangladesh and across the South Asian region.
The webinar opened with a welcome address by Mr. Choining Dorji, Director General of the SAARC Arbitration Council. In his opening remarks, Mr. Dorji set the tone for the session by underscoring the critical role of ADR in promoting cross-border commerce, legal efficiency, and regional cooperation. “In a global economy marked by complexity and interdependence, ADR offers a flexible, fair, and efficient path to resolving disputes,” Mr. Dorji noted, emphasizing SARCO’s commitment to strengthening ADR frameworks throughout South Asia.
The webinar was graced by Mr. Justice M Imman Ali, Former Justice of the Appellate Division, Supreme Court of Bangladesh, who honored the event as the Chief Guest. His presence underscored the importance of judicial backing in promoting ADR mechanisms, particularly in a rapidly developing economy like Bangladesh, where access to timely and efficient dispute resolution remains a challenge.
In his keynote address, Mr. Justice A.F.M. Abdur Rahman, Former Justice of the High Court Division, Supreme Court of Bangladesh, offered a compelling perspective on “Evolving Legal and Judicial Attitudes Towards ADR.” He expressed how Bangladesh’s judiciary has gradually warmed up to alternative methods of dispute resolution, particularly in commercial and civil matters. Mr. Justice Rahman emphasized that while progress has been made, more institutional support and legal reforms are needed to fully embed ADR into the mainstream legal framework.
Mr. Mohammed Forruk Rahman, Head of Chambers at Rahman’s Chambers, followed with an illuminating presentation on “Institutionalizing ADR in Bangladesh.” Drawing from both domestic and international examples, Mr. Rahman articulated a strategic roadmap for integrating ADR into Bangladesh’s legal and commercial infrastructure. He underscored the importance of building independent institutions, enhancing legal literacy, and fostering a culture of mediation and arbitration, particularly in commercial disputes.
The regional dimension of ADR was adeptly explored by Mr. Saqeb Mahbub, Partner at Mahbub & Company, who presented on “Cross-Border ADR and Regional Opportunities.” Mr. Mahbub highlighted the growing relevance of ADR in cross-border commercial disputes and investment arbitration, especially within the SAARC region. His presentation emphasized the importance of harmonizing legal frameworks, training practitioners in international arbitration standards, and enhancing regional cooperation to resolve transnational disputes efficiently.
On behalf of the Bangladesh International Arbitration Centre (BIAC), Mr. Mohammad Anisul Haque Emran, Senior Counsel of BIAC, delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks. “This webinar reflects our collective commitment to legal innovation and regional dialogue. ADR is no longer just an alternative, it is becoming essential for sustainable commerce and access to justice,” he noted. Mr. Emran expressed deep appreciation to all speakers, panelists, and participants who contributed to the success of the event.
The event was skillfully moderated by Barrister Saquib Mangrio, Assistant Director (Law), SAARC Arbitration Council, whose thoughtful stewardship ensured a seamless and engaging dialogue throughout the session.
The webinar served as a timely reminder of the transformative potential of ADR in promoting legal efficiency, reducing court backlogs, and enhancing investor confidence. As Bangladesh positions itself as a hub for trade and commerce in South Asia, strengthening its ADR infrastructure will be pivotal for future growth.
This event was not only a platform for exchanging scholarly insights but also a testament to the growing momentum for legal reform and regional cooperation in ADR. It marks another step forward in realizing the vision of a more accessible, efficient, and business-friendly dispute resolution system in Bangladesh.