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Abstract

This study undertakes a comprehensive examination of the current landscape, emerging trends, opportunities and challenges associated with integrating artificial intelligence (AI) technologies into alternative dispute resolution (ADR) systems across the BRICS nations of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa over the next 20 years. Through extensive analysis of scholarly literature, national policies and regulations, it develops a strategic framework comprised of tailored principles, policies and priority actions aimed at steering the adoption of AI in the ADR domain in a responsible, ethical and socially aligned manner. The research highlights the significant risks posed by the irresponsible deployment of AI, including the perpetuation of biases, the undermining of due process, the erosion of human discretion and oversight, and the replication or amplification of broader societal inequalities if adequate governance safeguards are not proactively instituted. It proposes priority policies for BRICS countries including public outreach campaigns promoting awareness of AI impacts on law and ethics, legislation mandating contestability of algorithmic decisions, networks for policy coordination and best practice sharing, and investments in regional centers of excellence researching AI-powered dispute resolution.