What is the focus of restorative justice practices?

Restorative justice practices are centered on the idea of healing and reconciliation rather than just punishment or deterrent tactics. This approach brings together victims, offenders, and the community to discuss the impact of the crime, encouraging dialogue that promotes understanding and accountability. The goal is to address the harm caused by the offense and facilitate a process that supports the emotional and psychological healing of all parties involved. By focusing on the needs of victims and the responsibilities of offenders, restorative justice aims to rebuild relationships and reintegrate offenders into society in a constructive manner, ultimately leading to a more cohesive community. This nurturing aspect is what distinguishes restorative justice from approaches that primarily emphasize deterrence or isolation.