Mediator participant type

Conference participants who attempt as "third parties" to resolve conflict between polarized groups or individuals. This is sometimes done publicly but more often occurs "behind the scenes" in a number of visits between the different parties.[Advantages]

Mediation can sometimes resolve conflict and disputes in a creative manner that produces a constructive settlement. It can allow for cooperation in moving onto the next step in a process.

[Disadvantages]

Mediation is time consuming and can fail to resolve conflict. Negotiations conducted through a third party are prone to misinterpretation. Conflict resolved through mediation can in fact be merely hidden. Some conflict can be mediated away at a point when it is most creative, only to resurface when it is destructive.