THE MEDIATION RULES OF CHICAGO INTERNATIONAL DISPUTE RESOLUTION ASSOCIATION (CIDRA) ARTICLE 14 - ROLE OF THE MEDIATOR 1) The mediator assists the parties in an independent and impartial manner in their attempt to reach an amicable settlement of their dispute. 2) The mediator will be guided by principles of objectivity, fairness, and justice, giving consideration to, among other things, the rights and obligations of the parties, the usages of the trade concerned and the circumstances surrounding the dispute, including any previous business practices between the parties. 3) The mediator may conduct the mediation proceedings in such a manner as he or she considers appropriate, taking into account the circumstances of the case, the desires expressed by the parties, including any request by a party that the mediator hear oral statements, and the need for a speedy settlement of the dispute. 4) The mediator may, at any stage of the mediation proceedings, make proposals for settlement of the dispute. Such proposals need not be in writing and need not be accompanied by a statement of reasons.