What approach does "restorative justice" focus on?

Restorative justice is an approach that emphasizes the rehabilitation of offenders through reconciliation with victims and the community. This method seeks to address the harm caused by criminal behavior by facilitating a process where all stakeholders can communicate openly. The goal is to promote healing for victims, empower communities, and encourage offenders to take responsibility for their actions, which can lead to a positive transformation in their behavior.

This approach contrasts sharply with punitive methods that focus solely on punishment, which can often exacerbate tensions between offenders and victims. By prioritizing dialogue and mutual agreement on how to repair the harm done, restorative justice fosters an environment of understanding and confrontation with the consequences of one’s actions, leading to more meaningful resolutions.