Conciliation/Mediation Learning Path
What Is the Conciliation/Mediation Learning Path?
Conciliation and mediation offer constructive, dialogue-based solutions to labour disputes — fostering cooperation, reducing conflict, and promoting fair and lasting workplace relations.
The ITCILO Conciliation/Mediation Learning Path is a structured, progressive training programme designed both for beginners who wish to build a solid foundation in alternative methods for conflict resolution, and for experienced practitioners who seek to refine and update their skills. The pathway is articulated in four progressive steps, each building on the previous one.
Who Should Follow This Learning Path?
This learning path is designed for:
- Staff of labour dispute agencies and ministries of labour involved in dispute prevention and resolution
- Employers' and workers' representatives
- Industrial relations experts and practitioners
- Labour lawyers and legal professionals
- Conciliators and mediators seeking formal certification
- Anyone interested in building or strengthening skills in alternative dispute resolution
The Four-Module Learning Path
Introductory Module: Introduction to Conciliation/Mediation of Labour Disputes
Format: Self-paced online course | Free of charge
An entry-level, self-paced course providing the essential concepts and principles of conciliation/mediation, designed to build a solid understanding of this alternative method for resolving labour disputes. No prior experience is required to begin.
Module 1: Conciliation/Mediation of Labour Disputes
Format: Online tutor-led programme
A comprehensive course combining technical, theoretical, and practical knowledge on the key thematic areas of conciliation/mediation. It features expert-led explanations, interactive exercises, and practice sessions to strengthen participants' applied skills.
Prerequisite: Introductory Module
Module 2: Certification Course on Conciliation/Mediation of Labour Disputes
Format: Available online or face-to-face
A rigorous programme providing tailored coaching and formal assessment of your conciliation/mediation skills. Assessment is based on the ITCILO's internationally recognised Matrix of Competences. This certification provides formal recognition of professional competence, enhances credibility, and reinforces trust in the role of conciliators/mediators in fostering fair and lasting workplace relations.
Prerequisite: Module 1
Module 3: Advanced Skills for Conciliators/Mediators of Labour Disputes
Format: Available online or face-to-face
An advanced, highly practical course designed to ensure continuous professional growth. It focuses on specific, in-depth skill areas that are crucial for effective conciliation/mediation practice. Through interactive methods, participants refine existing abilities while acquiring advanced strategies and techniques to elevate their practice.
Prerequisite: Module 2 (Certification Course)
Why Follow the Full Learning Path?
By progressing through all four modules, participants will be able to:
- Build a comprehensive understanding of conciliation/mediation principles, from foundational theory to advanced practice
- Develop and refine technical and soft skills — including communication, negotiation, empathy, and conflict analysis
- Earn internationally recognised certification, assessed against the ITCILO Matrix of Competences
- Join a global network of professionals working in alternative dispute resolution and social dialogue
- Contribute to fairer, more cooperative, and more sustainable workplace relations
Available Languages
The full learning path is available in both English and Spanish. The Introductory Module is also available in French.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I join at Module 1 if I already have mediation experience?
Each module requires completion of the previous one. However, experienced practitioners may find Module 1 an excellent opportunity to formalise and consolidate their existing knowledge before pursuing certification in Module 2.
Can I skip Module 1 and join Module 2 directly if I already have mediation experience?
The learning path is designed as a progressive sequence, and completion of each module is a prerequisite for the next. Even for experienced practitioners, Module 1 is required before joining Module 2 — not only to ensure a common baseline, but because the assessment in Module 2 builds directly on the skills and frameworks introduced in Module 1. That said, participants with prior experience often find that Module 1 is a valuable opportunity to formalise their knowledge and familiarise themselves with the ITCILO methodology before moving on to certification.
Is the introductory module really free?
Yes. The Introductory Module is completely free of charge and self-paced. You can start immediately via the ITCILO eCampus platform without any registration fee.
What certification do I receive?
Each module in the learning path leads to a formal ITCILO credential. Completing Module 1 earns you an ITCILO Certificate of Participation. Module 2 goes further, awarding an ITCILO Certificate of Achievement — assessed against the internationally recognised ITCILO Matrix of Competences for conciliators and mediators. Completing Module 3 earns you a second Certificate of Achievement, recognising your mastery of advanced skills in the field.
Can this training be tailored for my organisation?
Yes. ITCILO offers customised training solutions for institutions and organisations. Contact the Social Dialogue team to discuss a tailored programme for your context.
Start Your Learning Journey
Begin with the free Introductory Module — no prerequisites, no registration fee — and progress at your own pace through to professional certification.
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