Strengthening the role of mediation in the peaceful settlement
of disputes, conflict prevention and resolution
A/RES/68/303
force in any manner inconsistent with the purposes and principles of the United
Nations, and to uphold the resolution of disputes by peaceful means and in
conformity with the principles of justice and international law, the right to selfdetermination of peoples which remain under colonial domination or foreign
occupation, non-interference in the internal affairs of States, respect for human rights
and fundamental freedoms, respect for the equal rights of all without distinction as to
race, sex, language or religion, international cooperation in solving international
problems of an economic, social, cultural or humanitarian character and the
fulfilment in good faith of the obligations assumed in accordance with the Charter,
Bearing in mind that armed and other types of conflicts and terrorism, in all its
forms and manifestations, and hostage-taking still persist in many parts of the world,
Recalling that the peaceful settlement of disputes, conflict prevention and
resolution, in accordance with the Charter and international law, including through
mediation, remain a primary responsibility of Member States without prejudice to
Article 36 of the Charter,
Recognizing that responsible and credible mediation requires, inter alia,
national ownership, the consent of parties to a particular dispute or conflict, the
impartiality of the mediators, their compliance with agreed mandates, respect for
national sovereignty, compliance with obligations of States and other relevant actors
under international law, including applicable treaties, the operational preparedness,
including process and substantive expertise, of the mediators, and coherence,
coordination and complementarity of mediation efforts,
Emphasizing that justice and truth is a fundamental building block of
sustainable peace,
Appreciating the efforts of the Secretary-General, the Member States, regional
and subregional organizations and other relevant actors to promote the use of
mediation, and in this regard taking note of the United Nations Guidance for
Effective Mediation,1
Stressing the need for Member States as well as the United Nations and
regional and subregional organizations to continue to improve, as appropriate, their
capacities in the pacific settlement of disputes, conflict prevention and conflict
resolution, including mediation, for sustainable peace,
Recalling the good offices of the Secretary-General, and appreciating his
efforts to continue to strengthen United Nations mediation support capacities, in
accordance with agreed mandates,
Appreciating the partnerships and cooperation between the United Nations and
regional and subregional organizations in the field of mediation and the efforts of
the Secretary-General to work together with regional and subregional organizations
to strengthen their mediation support capacities, upon request and in accordance
with agreed mandates,
Encouraging the Secretary-General to support regional efforts and initiatives
by Member States, as well as regional and subregional organizations, to promote
mediation and to prevent and resolve conflicts, upon request and in accordance with
agreed mandates,
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2/5
A/66/811, annex I.