It is essential that mediation participants be free to speak truthfully, without fear that their own words could be used against them later in an adversarial process. Participants must retain their rights to informed consent in all aspects of the mediation process. Disputants are entitled to full disclosure by their mediator of any conflicts of interest. Any agreements made in mediation, especially those waiving claims, must have the informed consent of the parties to be enforceable. Free Choice of Neutrals.
Mediators help people agree to settle disputes on their own terms.
They don't write findings deciding who's wrong, like arbitrators. People with disputes have the right to jointly select any neutral person or organization to mediate for them. No specific degree or license should be either required or barred, for a person to serve as a mediator. Full and Equal Access. Early voluntary resolution of conflict is both cost-efficient and most consistent with democratic values.