rättsmedlingsverksamhet

Rättsmedling is a Swedish term that translates to victim-offender mediation or restorative justice conferencing. It is a process where victims and offenders meet, often with a neutral facilitator, to discuss the harm caused by an offense. The primary goals are to allow victims to express the impact of the crime, ask questions, and have a voice in the resolution process. For offenders, it provides an opportunity to take responsibility for their actions, understand the consequences, and make amends.

This approach is rooted in restorative justice principles, which emphasize repairing harm and addressing the needs of all parties involved, not just punishing the offender. Rättsmedlings can be used in various stages of the criminal justice process, from pre-trial diversion programs to post-conviction rehabilitation. It is often an alternative or supplement to traditional legal proceedings.

The process typically involves careful preparation of both the victim and the offender. A facilitator ensures that the meeting is safe and constructive, guiding the conversation and helping to reach an agreement. Agreements might include apologies, financial restitution, community service, or other actions designed to address the harm. The success of rättsmedling depends on the voluntary participation of both parties and their willingness to engage in open and honest dialogue. It is not intended to replace criminal prosecution but rather to offer a complementary way to address the aftermath of crime.