The Commission for conciliation, mediation and arbitration : its effectiveness in dispute resolution in labour relations

Abstract

In this article, the important issue of dispute resolution in South African labour relations is explored. After brief reference to the history of labour relations since the seventeenth century, the attention is focused on labour legislation promulgated since 1994. The Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) is discussed in greater detail, with some indication of the effectiveness of conciliation and mediation as tools in resolving disputes, as well as a discussion of the most recent available statistics on its activities.The conclusion looks at its future, particularly its continued aim to provide a fast, effective and user-friendly service.