Which term describes the process of resolving issues raised by a complaint through informal negotiations involving the aggrieved person, the respondent, and the Secretary?

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

Answer: (A)

Conciliation is the informal, collaborative process used to resolve a complaint through negotiation with the involvement of the aggrieved person, the respondent, and the Secretary. The goal is a voluntary settlement reached with the help of a facilitator who guides the discussion, clarifies issues, and may suggest terms. Because it’s amicable and non-binding unless the parties agree, it avoids formal hearings or court procedures.

This setup—and the Secretary’s role—signals an official attempt to settle the dispute without litigation, which is the hallmark of conciliation. It differs from arbitration and litigation, which impose a binding decision or a court ruling, and from mediation, which is also non-adversarial but may not involve the Secretary in negotiating terms.