What is the MSSA?

The Mediation Society of South Africa (MSSA) is a Non-Profit umbrella organization for South African mediators where they can feel protected, sheltered and supported within their profession, and where the broader public can also be introduced to mediation.

Mediation is not a well-known profession and the general public does not understand mediation and its benefits as a dispute resolution approach.

The Mediation Society of South Africa (MSSA) provides professional and accreditation standards, as well as training and tutelage for mediation practitioners through the Practical Mediation Training School.

The MSSA connects qualified and capable mediators with clients and the community at large. The MSSA brings mediation and society together in a responsible and effective manner.

How does the MSSA benefit Mediators and Associated Professionals?

The MSSA offers membership and accreditation.

The MSSA will evaluate training programmes offered in the industry.

The MSSA can provide access to mediation skills development.

The MSSA promotes working with all professionals related to the client’s interest.

What is Mediation?

A short definition would be that mediation is a voluntary process for resolving disputes by mutual agreement.

One can also say that mediation is a flexible form of dispute resolution applicable to different circumstances and situations. Mediation is conducted privately and confidentially. The mediator is a non-biased, impartial person who facilitates the parties to arrive at a negotiated settlement of their dispute, acceptable and/or beneficial to both.

The disputing parties will determine the final decision, since the mediator has no power to impose a settlement. The parties remain in control of the outcome, as they aim to negotiate towards a binding agreement in the interest of them both and preferably a win-win scenario. It is, therefore, of importance that parties voluntarily commit themselves to the process and give their full cooperation.

Why choose MSSA?

The mediation landscape in South Africa remains unregulated.  There have been attempts to formalise the process and establish the standards required for qualification in Mediation Skills. However, currently no such legislation or regulatory body exists to monitor the conduct of mediators or administration of the process. Hence, often the requirement to introduce disputing clients to the benefits of mediation is being diminished.

MSSA aims to bring integrity to the mediation industry and acknowledgement of all mediators present and future regarding their skills and competence.  We put the client’s interests first and hold professionals accountable for their quality of service. 

How To Join