Mediation aims to facilitate a constructive dialogue between disputing parties, helping them reach a mutually acceptable resolution without resorting to litigation or adversarial proceedings.

Party autonomy is a core principle of mediation, emphasizing the right of the parties involved to make their own decisions and control the outcome of the mediation process.

The mediator's primary role is to create a conducive environment for communication and negotiation, helping the parties explore options, identify common interests, and reach a mutually acceptable resolution.

In mediation, a neutral third party (the mediator) facilitates the negotiation process, while in arbitration, a decision-maker (the arbitrator) hears evidence and makes a binding decision.

Mediation is often used as an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) method before parties resort to litigation, aiming to resolve conflicts early on and avoid the costs and delays associated with a trial.

Mediation offers several benefits, including lower costs, faster resolution, and the potential to maintain or even improve relationships between the parties involved.

While mediation has numerous advantages, it may not be appropriate for all disputes, may not always lead to legally binding outcomes, and can sometimes be a lengthy process.

Confidentiality is crucial in mediation to foster trust, encourage open communication, and protect the privacy of the parties involved.

Mediators have ethical obligations to maintain impartiality, avoid conflicts of interest, and uphold the confidentiality of the mediation process.

There are various mediation techniques, including transformative mediation (focusing on underlying interests and relationships), evaluative mediation (assessing the strengths and weaknesses of each party's case), and facilitative mediation (assisting parties in finding common ground).

Legal counsel plays a multifaceted role in mediation, providing legal advice, representing clients, and assisting them in preparing for and participating in the mediation process.

A mediated settlement agreement is generally legally binding and enforceable, unless it is found to be invalid or unenforceable by a court.

Mediation in international disputes offers several advantages, including preserving diplomatic relations, reducing costs, and providing flexibility and adaptability in the dispute resolution process.

Mediation in international disputes can face challenges related to cultural differences, language barriers, and differing legal systems, which can impact the effectiveness and enforceability of the mediation process.

Mediation is expected to continue growing in popularity as an ADR method, with increasing specialization, technological advancements, and broader applications across various legal contexts.