The rise of restorative justice: An alternative to punitive systems

Restorative justice is an approach to justice that ficuses on repairing the harm caused by crime or conflict rather than just simply punishing the offender. It brings together victims, offenders, and the community to discuss what happened, how people were affected, and what can be done to make things right. Unlike punitive systems, which emphasize guilt and punishment, restorative justice aims to promote healing, accountability, and understanding. It encourages offenders to take responsibility for their actions and actively contribute to repairing the damage. This process helps rebuild trust, reduces reoffendering, and strengthens community relationships, offering a more compassionate and costructive alternative to traditional punishment.