1. Purpose and Authority

These Regulations govern the application, evaluation, certification, renewal, and withdrawal of professional designations awarded by The Neutrals Organization (hereafter “the Organization”).
They are issued under the authority of the Independent Certification Board (ICB) pursuant to Article VIII of the Bylaws.

2. Certification Categories

The Organization recognizes the following certification designations:

a. Certified Neutral – THE-NEUTRALS™
For qualified mediators, arbitrators, evaluators, ombuds, and related professionals.

b. Senior Certified Neutral
For professionals with more than 10 years of active dispute resolution experience and recognized contributions to the field.

c. Fellow of THE-NEUTRALS™
Honorary or lifetime recognition for outstanding leadership, innovation, or global contribution to the advancement of neutral practice.

d. Institutional Certification Partner
For organizations, firms, and institutions that meet the Organization’s standards of ethical and preventive dispute management.

3. Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for certification, applicants must:

a. Demonstrate independence, impartiality, and ethical integrity.
b. Possess relevant education, qualifications, or equivalent professional experience.
c. Provide evidence of professional competence in dispute prevention or resolution.
d. Have no outstanding disciplinary or criminal record that impairs professional standing.
e. Agree to abide by the Code of Ethical Conduct and all related policies of the Organization.

4. Application Process

a. Applications are submitted online through the official website (www.theneutrals.org).
b. All applications must include:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• Identification proof

• Professional references or recommendations

• Statement of professional practice and sector focus

• Any supporting credentials (optional)
  c. Incomplete applications will not be processed.

5. Evaluation Procedure

a. Applications are reviewed by the Independent Certification Board (ICB).
b. Evaluation is based on a structured scoring system covering:

• Professional competence (30%)

• Ethical standing and independence (20%)

• Sectoral or domain expertise (20%)

• Demonstrated experience or contribution (20%)

• Commitment to dispute prevention and innovation (10%)
  c. Applicants achieving an aggregate score of 70% or above qualify for certification.
  d. The ICB may request additional information or an interview if required.

6. Certification Decision and Notification

a. Applicants are notified of the outcome within 5 to 7 working days of submission.
b. Successful candidates receive:

• Digital certificate of designation;

• Authorization to use the title “Certified Neutral – THE-NEUTRALS™” (with sector and country recognition);

• Access to The Neutrals Practitioner Kit (booklet, brochure, and brand guidelines);

• Listing on the Global Registry and relevant sectoral Bench on www.theneutrals.org.
  c. Unsuccessful applicants may reapply after six months or seek guidance from the Secretariat.

7. Validity and Renewal

a. Certification is valid for 12 months from the date of issue.
b. Renewal requires:

• Declaration of continued independence and ethical compliance;

• Confirmation of ongoing professional activity or CPD (continuing professional development);

• Payment of the applicable annual designation fee.
  c. Failure to renew results in temporary suspension from the Registry until reactivation.

8. Suspension or Revocation

Certification may be suspended or revoked if the Neutral:
a. Violates the Code of Ethical Conduct;
b. Is found guilty of misconduct, fraud, or conflict of interest;
c. Uses the Organization’s marks contrary to policy;
d. Fails to comply with renewal or payment requirements.

Suspension or revocation follows the procedures defined in the Discipline & Oversight Rules.

9. Appeals

a. Any applicant or certificant may appeal a certification or disciplinary decision within 30 days of notice.
b. Appeals are heard by an independent Appeals Panel, separate from the original decision-makers.
c. The Appeals Panel’s decision is final and binding.

10. Confidentiality and Records

All application data, evaluations, and deliberations are treated as confidential.
The Organization maintains secure electronic records of all certification decisions in accordance with the Data Protection Policy.

11. Publication of Certified Neutrals

The Organization maintains a publicly accessible Global Registry listing the names, sectors, and countries of Certified Neutrals.
Publication implies consent by the certificant for limited professional visibility in accordance with data protection law.

12. Fees

a. Certification and renewal fees are established by the Executive Board and published in the Fee Schedule & Financial Regulations.
b. No payment is required at the application stage.
c. Fees are payable only upon final approval and before issuance of the certificate.

13. Amendments

These Regulations may be amended by the Independent Certification Board with approval of the Executive Board.
Revised versions shall be published on the Organization’s website and notified to all Certified Neutrals.

14. Effective Date

These Certification Regulations take effect on 1 january 2025 and remain in force until superseded or amended.

Issued by:
The Independent Certification Board

The Neutrals Organization
www.theneutrals.org