What does the term "restorative justice" mean in the context of detention facilities?

Restorative justice within the context of detention facilities refers to an approach that emphasizes healing and reconciliation rather than retribution. It seeks to address the harm caused by criminal behavior by involving all stakeholders, particularly the offenders and their victims. The goal is to rehabilitate offenders through understanding the impact of their actions, taking responsibility, and ultimately restoring relationships harmed by crime.

This method fosters a sense of accountability in offenders and encourages them to make amends, whether through direct interaction with victims or through community service. Rather than merely punishing the offender, restorative justice aims to reintegrate them into the community positively, facilitating personal growth and reducing recidivism.

In contrast, approaches that focus solely on punitive measures or isolation do not allow for the personal growth or rehabilitation aspects that restorative justice promotes. Therefore, in the framework of detention facilities, restorative justice can contribute significantly to reducing future offenses and supporting a more constructive relationship between offenders and the community.