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Within the framework of the negotiation process there are a number of prescriptions to which the mediator must to some extent comply. The oft-quoted principles of fairness, neutrality, and empowerment form the basis of this method for dealing with conflict situations. These principles distinguish mediation from other judicial and extrajudicial procedures such as conciliation or arbitration. With a pluridisciplinary view, the author studies each principle carefully. He argues that they serve as a means to ensure compliance of the various cases of mediation to these "pillars" of the doctrine.