The role of the mediator

The role of the mediator is to help the parties concerned understand their situations and come to a solution that considers the interests of both parties to the conflict. This may include helping parties to reach an agreement, resolve a dispute, communicate effectively, build or improve relationships, or all of the above.

The mediator does not take the side of the parties to the conflict. The mediator is neutral and impartial.


Basic principles of mediation::

• Voluntary participation in the process
• Process privacy
• Neutrality, impartiality and independence of the mediator
• Self-determination of the parties (the parties make their own decisions)
• Contributes to the establishment of effective communication, building and improving the relationship of the conflicting parties
• Creates conditions for constructive interaction, in which the parties can hear and understand each other's needs
• Facilitates the negotiation process to find mutually acceptable solution
  

The main features of mediation are::

• Mediation is a special type of negotiation that have a certain structure
• participation of a mediator is required
• The mediator is not a representative of any of the conflicting parties
• the mediator facilitates/helps the parties to negotiate and reach a mutually acceptable solution
• The mediator does not force the parties to make a specific decision, and does not give advice on possible solutions
• The active role of the parties themselves in the negotiations regarding the independent search for possible solutions
• Mediation is a special form of negotiation, and its nature is determined by the place and role of the mediator in this process
  

Mediation may be the best way to resolve disputes when:

• Сommunication between the parties is interrupted
• Direct negotiations stalled as a result of strong negative emotions
• Need to avoid publicity and save the reputation