mediation

Syllable breakdown

Dictionary meaning

a structured conflict resolution process in which a trained, impartial third party — the mediator — facilitates communication between disputing parties and assists them in negotiating a mutually acceptable agreement, without imposing a solution or making binding decisions; mediation is distinguished from arbitration, in which a third party imposes a ruling, and from litigation, in which a judge or jury adjudicates; the mediator's role is to manage the process — creating a safe space for dialogue, helping parties articulate their underlying interests, generating options, and testing potential agreements — while leaving substantive decision-making authority with the parties; mediation is applied in family disputes, commercial conflicts, workplace disagreements, community conflicts, and international peace negotiations, and is preferred where preserving ongoing relationships and achieving voluntary compliance with the outcome are important