Mediation - Principles
Mediation differs in distinguishing features from other forms of dealing with conflicts for instance in legal actions, or in arbitral jurisdiction, therapeutic or social work interventions. The basic principles of mediation are registered below:
- The mediator is neutral and belongs to all parties (partiality)
...that means that he does not take sides (neutral) and he faces to all sides in equal measure. He equilibrates power and weakness of the parties among themselves. In this way all participants feel understood, but not preferred.
- The mediator is not an expert in matters
...that means that he does not express himself in knowledge of the objects or of expert-knowledge in the topics of the quarrel. His task consists of the organisation, composition, structuring and observation of the negotiation of the conflicting parties. He de-escalates the altercation and governs the communication.
- The parties act and decide voluntarily, self-determined and in their own responsibility
...that means that mediation under duress cannot work.
- All participants of a conflict are included and are present.
...that means that mediation is based on the principle of the direct communication between the parties.
- The parties desire a constructive mutual agreement.
...that means they have to be prepared to find together a consensus.
- The interests of the conflicting parties are in the fore.
...that means, it's not about blame and innocence, the point is what the conflicting parties are moved and incited by.
- The proceeding is forward-looking and not orientated to the past.
...that is to say that the configuration takes the centre stage, how to further associate with each other.