For the past four decades, mediation practices have been steadily developing in Western societies, offering new ways for citizens to coexist peacefully. Unlike most works that focus on a single country or field, this book provides a comprehensive international overview of the development and implementation of mediation in all its forms. It explores the history and philosophy of mediation, outlines its ethical and professional principles, and presents the diverse models that guide practitioners.
Departing from the dogmatic perspectives often found in the specialist literature, it proposes a flexible and adaptable approach to conflict that can be applied across a wide range of contexts—political, environmental, judicial, family, social, educational, commercial, and health.Through a socio-political and empirical lens, the book highlights the considerable promise of this non-violent method of conflict resolution, while also critically examining its dangers and limitations.