The Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) is an independent tribunal which adjudicates labour disputes in South Africa. It was established in November 1996 in terms of Section 112 of the Labour Relations Act, 1995, which in turn implements the labour rights provided for in section 23 of the Constitution of South Africa.[1] [2]
Although it has other mandatory and discretionary functions, the CCMA is best known for its role in the resolution of labour disputes; it has been referred over 3.8 million such disputes since 1996. The dispute resolution function was intended to minimise recourse to litigation,[3] and observers credit it with having "brought statutory dispute resolution within reach of the ordinary worker".[4] [5] A mediation and collective bargaining department was established in 2007.
CCMA determinations may be appealed in the Labour Court of South Africa.