Using a neutral third party to help two other parties come to an agreement is known as what?

Using a neutral third party to assist two other parties in reaching an agreement is known as mediation. In this process, the mediator facilitates communication and negotiation between the parties but does not have the authority to impose a decision on them. Instead, the goal is to help the parties find a mutually acceptable resolution to their conflict.

Mediation is often used in various contexts, including legal disputes, workplace conflicts, and family disputes, because it encourages collaboration and can lead to solutions that are satisfactory for everyone involved. The skills of the mediator, such as active listening, empathy, and neutrality, are crucial in guiding the parties toward agreement.

This approach contrasts with arbitration, where a neutral party makes a binding decision on the matter after hearing both sides, and litigation, which involves legal action in a courtroom. Administrative agencies refer to organizations that carry out government functions, often related to regulation or enforcement, which do not directly relate to the conflict resolution process outlined in this question.