Mediation refers to a process through which a third party provides procedural assistance to help individuals or groups in conflict to resolve their differences. Mediation processes vary throughout the world in form and underlying philosophy. In many Western countries, the mediator is usually an independent, impartial person who has no decision-making authority. In other societies, it may be more important that the mediator is known and trusted by the parties to the conflict rather than being seen as impartial.

Mediation is a voluntary process and its success is linked to the vesting of decision making authority in the parties involved in the dispute. The mediator structures the process in a way which creates a safe environment for parties to discuss the conflict and find solutions which will meet their interests. Mediation typically starts with an introduction which includes, among other things, a description of the process and ground-rules which provide behavioral guidelines for the participants. Parties are then, in turn, given an opportunity to present their understanding of the conflict. After this, a list of issues is created and an agenda is devised to guide parties through the resolution process. The mediator then helps parties negotiate solutions to the issues they have identified. As specific solutions are reached, parties are asked to confirm their acceptance.