Deadline: 05-Jun-2026
The SO-JUST Project is inviting Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to submit proposals to support the expansion and improvement of mediation services across Jamaica. The initiative focuses on strengthening alternative dispute resolution systems, improving access to justice, and enhancing mediation training and professional development.
The project is funded by the Government of Canada and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with the Government of Jamaica and civil society organizations.
Programme Objectives
The call aims to:
- Expand mediation services in Jamaica
- Improve mediation training and professional development
- Increase referrals to mediation services
- Strengthen public-private partnerships in the justice sector
- Improve access to justice for vulnerable groups
- Promote equitable and gender-responsive justice systems
The initiative particularly supports youth and groups experiencing multiple forms of discrimination.
Key Focus Areas
Supported activities include:
- Specialized mediation training programmes
- Refresher training and upskilling for mediators
- Awareness and referral initiatives targeting judiciary, police, and legal professionals
- Policy recommendations for mediation sector development
- Community-level justice support initiatives
- Public-private partnership development
About the SO-JUST Project
The SO-JUST Project is a seven-year social justice reform programme in Jamaica.
The initiative focuses on:
- Equity
- Access
- Participation
- Human rights
The programme seeks systemic improvements within justice institutions and related public and non-state organizations.
Focus on Alternative Justice Services
This call falls under Output 1: Alternative Justice Services.
The objective is to:
- Improve mediation and alternative dispute resolution services
- Strengthen justice service delivery
- Increase community-based access to justice
- Support inclusive and responsive justice systems
CSOs are expected to play an important role in delivering community-focused justice solutions.
Who is Eligible?
The call targets:
- Qualified Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)
- Organizations working in justice, mediation, human rights, or community development
- Groups supporting vulnerable and marginalized populations
Applicants should demonstrate experience in:
- Mediation or dispute resolution
- Community engagement
- Justice sector programming
- Capacity building and training
Expected Outcomes
The programme aims to achieve:
- Improved mediation services across Jamaica
- Better-trained mediators
- Increased use of alternative dispute resolution
- Stronger collaboration between civil society and justice institutions
- Greater access to justice for disadvantaged groups
Tips for Applicants
Strong proposals should:
- Demonstrate community impact
- Include practical mediation strategies
- Address inclusion and gender responsiveness
- Show experience in justice or social development
- Present clear implementation plans and partnerships
FAQ
Who is funding the SO-JUST Project?
The project is funded by the Government of Canada and implemented by UNDP in partnership with the Government of Jamaica.
What is the focus of this call?
The call supports mediation services, alternative dispute resolution, and access to justice initiatives in Jamaica.
Who can apply?
Qualified Civil Society Organizations working in justice, mediation, human rights, or community development sectors.
What activities are supported?
Activities include mediation training, mediator upskilling, referral initiatives, policy development, and community justice programmes.
Which groups are prioritized?
The initiative prioritizes youth and groups facing discrimination or barriers to justice access.
Conclusion
The SO-JUST Project Call for Proposals provides an important opportunity for Civil Society Organizations in Jamaica to strengthen mediation services and improve access to justice. Through training, partnership building, and community-based justice initiatives, the programme supports a more equitable, inclusive, and gender-responsive justice system in Jamaica.
For more information, visit UNDP.