What is 'restorative justice'?

Restorative justice is fundamentally an approach focused on rehabilitation through reconciliation rather than punishment. This model prioritizes the needs of victims, encourages accountability from offenders, and fosters a collaborative process that involves all stakeholders, including the community. The aim is to repair harm caused by criminal behavior by facilitating dialogue and understanding among those affected, rather than merely inflicting punishment. This method recognizes the importance of restoring relationships and promoting healing, which can lead to more constructive outcomes for both victims and offenders. By emphasizing rehabilitation and the restoration of social harmony, restorative justice seeks to prevent future offenses and contribute to a more cohesive community.