The role of a(n) ________ is to facilitate communication between parties who are having a disagreement, assist them in focusing on the real issues, and attempt to reach conflict resolution. 

Fill in the blank(s) with the appropriate word(s).

mediator
A mediator's role is to facilitate communication between the parties, assist them in focusing on the real issues of the disagreement in a non-adversarial manner, and attempt to reach conflict resolution.