eBay is the difference between mediation and arbitration

Mediation and arbitration are both forms of alternative dispute resolution, but they differ in several ways.

Mediation is a process in which a neutral third party, the mediator, helps the parties in a dispute reach a mutually acceptable solution. The mediator does not make a decision or impose a solution, but rather facilitates communication and negotiation between the parties. Mediation is voluntary and non-binding, meaning the parties are free to walk away from the process at any time and are not required to accept any proposed solution.

Arbitration, on the other hand, is a process in which a neutral third party, the arbitrator, hears evidence and arguments from both sides and makes a final and binding decision. The arbitrator acts like a judge and has the power to impose a solution on the parties. Arbitration can be either voluntary or mandatory, and the parties are typically bound by the arbitrator's decision.

In the context of eBay, mediation may be used to resolve disputes between buyers and sellers before they escalate to arbitration or litigation. eBay offers a mediation service called the eBay Resolution Center, where buyers and sellers can work with a mediator to resolve disputes over transactions. If mediation is unsuccessful, the parties may choose to move to arbitration, which is conducted through eBay's dispute resolution process.