What does restorative justice prioritize in its approach?

Restorative justice prioritizes the dialogue between victims, offenders, and the community as a core component of its approach. This model emphasizes healing and reconciliation rather than punishment. By facilitating open communication among all parties affected by a crime, restorative justice aims to address the needs and concerns of victims, hold offenders accountable for their actions, and promote community involvement in the justice process.

This approach contrasts with more traditional punitive justice systems, which often focus solely on punishment, resulting in a lack of engagement between victims and offenders. By fostering a collaborative environment where victims can express their feelings and discuss the impact of the crime, restorative justice seeks to empower victims, encourage accountability from offenders, and repair community relationships. The ultimate goal is to create a more holistic resolution that benefits all involved rather than merely imposing penalties.