Voluntariness – Any of the participants, including the mediator, can discontinue the mediation at any time after a session
Confidentiality – Outside the mediation the mediator will not mention the content of the process, as this is the only way the parties can openly discuss their interests and
exchange the relevant information
Openness as to the result – A mediation is not possible if the outcome is to be set from the word go. All the parties in the conflict must enter into the mediation with a
degree of readiness to negotiate. This also includes the participants' basic ability to negotiate and come to a conclusion – a factor particularly applicable to wide-ranging processes in
industry or the public sector
Multipartiality – The mediator leads the mediation by 'favouring everyone', i.e. he is on the side of everyone involved. This approach goes far beyond simple neutrality
Readiness to cooperate – It is a prerequisite that those in conflict take part in the mediation voluntarily, have a fundamental interest in cooperation, communication and
good future relations, and agree on discretion, confidentiality and taking responsibility for themselves
