Explanation
Restorative justice is a framework for addressing crime that shifts focus away from punishment and retribution toward repairing harm and restoring relationships. It involves the active participation of offenders, victims, and sometimes community members, often in facilitated meetings such as victim-offender dialogues, circles, or conferences.
The goal is to acknowledge wrongdoing, take responsibility, understand the impact of the offense, and collaboratively find ways to make amends. Restorative justice can lead to emotional closure, reduced recidivism, and greater satisfaction among victims.
This model stands in contrast to retributive justice systems and is influenced by indigenous justice traditions, conflict resolution, and therapeutic jurisprudence. It is increasingly used in juvenile justice, schools, and community policing.
Theoretical Reference
Restorative justice aligns with conflict resolution theory, critical criminology, and peacemaking criminology. It has also been discussed by scholars like John Braithwaite, who links it to reintegrative shaming.