What is the basic philosophy behind restorative justice?

The fundamental principle behind restorative justice centers on the idea of repairing harm caused by criminal behavior through constructive dialogue and active involvement of the community. This approach emphasizes addressing the needs of both victims and offenders, encouraging them to engage in a healing process that fosters understanding and accountability.

Restorative justice seeks to bring the affected parties together, allowing victims to express their feelings and needs, while providing offenders with the opportunity to take responsibility for their actions and understand the impact of their behavior. This collaborative effort not only aims to mend the relationships disrupted by the crime but also promotes community healing and empowerment.

In contrast to punitive measures that focus primarily on isolating and penalizing offenders, restorative justice prioritizes rehabilitation and reconciliation. By encouraging dialogue and community participation, restorative justice can lead to transformative outcomes that benefit all parties involved and contribute to overall social harmony.