What is the method of resolving conflict involving a neutral third party?

The method of resolving conflict involving a neutral third party is mediation. In mediation, a trained mediator helps facilitate discussions between the conflicting parties to identify their needs and interests. The neutral mediator does not take sides or make decisions for the parties involved; instead, they guide the conversation, helping each party to express their viewpoints and encouraging collaborative problem-solving. This process is designed to foster understanding and promote a voluntary agreement that meets the needs of both parties, making it an effective method for amicable conflict resolution.

Negotiation, while also a method for resolving disputes, typically involves the parties directly negotiating with each other without the assistance of a third party to guide the dialogue. Arbitration involves a third party making binding decisions after hearing both sides of the dispute, which differs from the non-binding approach used in mediation. Facilitation refers to the process of making a complex process easier by guiding discussions or logistics but does not necessarily focus on conflict resolution as its primary goal. Thus, mediation is specifically centered on conflict resolution with the involvement of a neutral third party.