The Role of the CCMA and Labour Courts

Most employment disputes in South Africa are first referred to the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) or a relevant Bargaining Council.

The process generally includes:

1. Conciliation – An attempt to resolve the dispute through mediation
2. Arbitration – A formal hearing where an arbitrator makes a binding decision

More complex matters may proceed to the Labour Court, Labour Appeal Court, or higher courts depending on the nature of the dispute.