The IBA Rules for Investor-State Mediation were adopted by a resolution of the IBA Council on 04 October 2012. The rules are designed for the mediation of investment-related disputes involving States or State entities, only applying when the mediating parties have both agreed that these rules shall apply. They govern the commencement and conduct of the mediation process, as well as the designation, resignation and role of mediators and co-mediators. Also included in the document are rules protecting the principles of independence and impartiality of mediators, privacy and confidentiality, and settlement or termination of the mediation process.