The term "third party" refers to a neutral organization or party that becomes involved in a conflict to help resolve disputes within the parties. Third parties could act as consultants, helping one or both parties evaluate the conflict and plan an effective solution. Additionally, they could serve as facilitators, forming meetings, setting agendas, and leading productive discussions essential to conflict resolution. There are different ways to reach solutions between opposing parties, and each approach has its advantages and disadvantages. The two main approaches are mediation and arbitration. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay. Mediators play an active and powerful role not only as mediators facilitate discussions, but usually impose a system and process on the discussions that form to move the parties towards mutual understanding and win-win agreements. Although many different styles of mediation are common, most mediators arrange for conflicting parties to sit together to explain and exchange their opinions on the nature of the problem and how best to resolve it. The mediator often tries to get the conflicting parties to focus on the underlying interests rather than on the initial positions that were the cause of the conflict. By clarifying different points of view and the reasons for those points of view, mediators can usually lead the parties to develop a common understanding of the situation, which often defines a solution that satisfies the interests of all parties. Although some mediators take a stronger role between opposing parties, mediators do not have the power to impose a solution. At best, they can suggest a solution that the disputants may or may not accept. The most powerful role of a third party is that of an arbitrator. An arbitrator usually welcomes the views and opinions expressed by both parties, reviews the materials and other evidence related to the case, and then decides how to resolve a conflict. In most cases, the arbitrator's decision is binding and cannot be overturned. Therefore, the arbitrator is the most powerful type of intermediary. Arbitration works well when the parties simply want an agreement and don't worry about losing control of the process or outcome. However, for parties and organizations wishing to maintain control, other forms of intervention are often preferred. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay There are three main third parties that play the role of intermediary roles which are states, NGOs and IGOs. In the beginning, states were the dominant third party because they were the only legitimate actor in the international structure. However, after World War II, non-state actors such as IGOs ​​and NGOs have become important negotiators in our world. Even more recently, IGOs ​​are recognized as an important third party that sometimes even surpasses the role of individual states.