restorativejustice

Restorative justice is an approach to addressing harm caused by wrongdoing that prioritizes repairing relationships and community healing over punishment. It seeks to involve victims, offenders, and community members in processes that acknowledge harm, take responsibility, and determine restitution and steps toward repair.

Core practices include victim–offender mediation, restorative circles (conferences and dialogues), and community-based reparative actions. Participation is typically voluntary, with skilled facilitators guiding discussions aimed at understanding impact, expressing accountability, and agreeing on remedies such as restitution, services, or community service, and plans to prevent future harm.

Origins and scope: Restorative justice emerged in the late 20th century as a response to punitive justice models, drawing on indigenous practices and reforms in schools and criminal justice in various countries. It is applied in criminal justice settings, schools, workplaces, and community programs, often as an alternative to prosecution or as a supplement to sentencing.

Evidence and critique: Research on restorative justice is mixed and context-dependent. Some studies report reductions in reoffending and higher victim satisfaction, while others find modest or unclear effects. Critics caution against coercion, insufficient attention to power imbalances, and potential retraumatization, arguing that restorative processes are not suitable for all offenses or safety concerns. Supporters emphasize the potential for accountability, empathy, and reintegration when properly implemented with adequate resources and safeguards.