Difference between Arbitrator and Conciliator

The primary difference between an arbitrator and a conciliator lies in their authority and the nature of the process. While an arbitrator acts like a private judge who imposes a binding decision, a conciliator acts as a facilitator who helps parties reach their own voluntary agreement.

Both roles are governed by the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, but they operate under different parts of the Act and have distinct legal implications.

Major Differences at a Glance

Feature	Arbitrator	Conciliator
Role	Adjudicator (Judge-like)	Facilitator (Advisory)
Outcome	Arbitral Award	Settlement Agreement
Binding Force	Binding and enforceable as a court decree (Section 36).	Only binding if both parties sign the agreement (Section 73).
Discussions	Generally prohibited from private one-on-one meetings (ex parte).	Encouraged to have separate or joint meetings with parties (Section 69).
Authority	Can impose a decision based on evidence and law.	Cannot impose a decision; can only suggest potential solutions (Section 67).
Governing Law	Part I of the 1996 Act.	Part III of the 1996 Act.