Question

What is restorative justice and its main principles?

Answer 1

Restorative justice views crime as more than breaking the law, it also causes harm to people, relationships, and the community. So a just response must address those harms as well as the wrongdoing. If the parties are willing, the best way to do this is to help them meet to discuss those harms and how to about bring resolution. Other approaches are available if they are unable or unwilling to meet. Sometimes those meetings lead to transformational changes in their lives.

The foundational principles of restorative justice have been summarized as follows:

Crime causes harm and justice should focus on repairing that harm.The people most affected by the crime should be able to participate in its resolution.The responsibility of the government is to maintain order and of the community to build peace.