GOOD OFFICES AS A SOFT POWER TOOL: BALANCING SOVEREIGNTY, NEUTRALITY AND JUSTICE IN ADR

AUTHOR – DR. SONIKA AHLAWA, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR, DEPARTMENT OF LEGAL STUDIES, TRINITY INSTITUTE OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES, DWARKA, NEW DELHI

BEST CITATION – DR. SONIKA AHLAWA, GOOD OFFICES AS A SOFT POWER TOOL: BALANCING SOVEREIGNTY, NEUTRALITY AND JUSTICE IN ADR, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 6 (8) OF 2026, PG. 867-873, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344. DOI – https://doi.org/10.65393/IJLRV6I894

ABSTRACT

The concept of Good Offices occupies a unique and often understated position within the spectrum of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). Historically rooted in diplomatic traditions, it embodies the subtle exercise of influence without coercion—an expression of soft power that seeks to reconcile conflicting interests while preserving sovereignty, neutrality, and justice. This article critically examines Good Offices as a soft power instrument in both interstate and non-state dispute contexts. It explores how third parties, including states, international organisations, and eminent individuals, leverage moral authority and institutional credibility to create conducive environments for negotiation and peacebuilding. Through a comparative analysis of case studies—from the United Nations’ mediation practices to regional mechanisms in the ASEAN and African Union frameworks—the study evaluates the operational limits and ethical challenges inherent in balancing neutrality and advocacy. The paper further argues that the effectiveness of Good Offices depends not only on diplomatic skill but also on the perception of impartiality and procedural fairness. Ultimately, it proposes a reconceptualisation of Good Offices as a dynamic ADR mechanism that integrates principles of justice and legitimacy within contemporary conflict resolution architecture.

Keywords: Good Offices, soft power, alternative dispute resolution, neutrality, sovereignty, justice, diplomacy, mediation.