El desconocimiento ciudadano como obstáculo para la aplicación efectiva de la justicia alternativa en Cuenca

Abstract

This study addresses the lack of public knowledge regarding alternative justice mechanisms in Cuenca as its main focus, which constitutes an obstacle to their effective application and limits comprehensive access to justice, generating a preference for traditional justice despite its limitations. In this context, the general objective is to analyze comprehensively how such lack of knowledge affects the use of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms and access to justice. Methodologically, the study adopts a qualitative and quantitative approach, using legal-analytical, empirical, descriptive, and documentary methods; moreover, structured surveys consisting of ten closed-ended questions were administered to a sample of 40 people, equally composed of men and women from different age ranges. The results showed that even though a general awareness of those mechanisms exists, an operational lack of knowledge predominates, affecting their practical effectiveness and consolidating a gap between legal framework and social reality.