Conciliation is defined as which of the following?

• A. Conciliation
• B. Mediation
• C. Litigation
• D. Arbitration

Answer: (A)

Conciliation is a dispute-resolution process where a neutral third party helps the parties in conflict reach a voluntary settlement. The conciliator clarifies issues, explores underlying interests, and may suggest settlement terms to moves discussions forward. The result is a mutually agreed agreement, not a decision imposed by the third party. This distinguishes conciliation from court litigation (which goes to a judge and results in a ruling) and from arbitration (which yields a binding decision). It is similar to mediation, but the conciliator’s input often includes proposing terms to help the parties settle. Because this description matches how conciliation is defined, it is the best choice.