Customary Conflict Resolutions among Tribes: Young Indigenous Peoples’ (IP) Perspectives in Focus

Abstract

Globalization and neoliberalism have changed human thinking, including that of indigenous cultures. This qualitative-exploratory research aimed to ascertain the personal views, opinions, and perspectives of indigenous students on their customary conflict resolution laws within the context of their liberal education. Thirty-six self-identified Tagacaolos, Blaan, Manobo, and Tausug participants took part in the study.   Focus group interviews were used to obtain the information. Results revealed that most tribes recognized the authority of their tribal leaders in solving misunderstandings. The most egregious wrongdoings committed were theft, and the three most popular punishments were payment to the aggrieved party, public shaming, and banishment. Some participants considered the customary conflict resolution as inhuman and preferred the modern society’s way, but few conservatives wanted to preserve the tradition. The findings suggest that academic institutions may develop educational materials that discuss tribal customary laws, not only for knowledge dissemination but also to preserve the norms of indigenous peoples regarding conflict resolution.