Resources
Introduction to RJ
What are you looking for? Click on a question below to be taken to another area of the site. Or see below for a description of what's available.
Does restorative justice work?
Where can I find academic (and other) articles on restorative justice?
I have a specific area of RJ in mind. Where can I find articles on it?
What is restorative justice like in practice?
Where can I ask a question about restorative justice?
What other websites are available on restorative justice?
What is restorative justice?
Restorative justice is ...
... a philosophy which views harm and crime as a violation of people and relationships.
... a holistic process that addresses the repercussions and obligations created by harm, with a view to putting things as right as possible.
... best practiced when guided by restorative values and principles and when those most affected are the focus.
Visit our Introduction page to learn more about restorative justice.
Does restorative justice work?
This is a difficult question that can't be easily answered. The fundamental principles and values of restorative justice are somewhat incompatible with the traditional methods of measuring success. Although one important indicator, recidivism, is still a relevant goal, restorative justice goes well beyond the standard of simply stopping an offender from committing future crimes. In fact, the goals of restorative justice are abstract and intangible, making the measurement of success difficult. Such goals include healing harm, restoring harmony in the community, ensuring accountability and responsibility for past and future actions, and helping communities work on issues of social justice. Evaluation is still a challenge because concrete, scientific methods of measuring the success of such goals are still being developed.
As restorative justice currently works along side a model that relies on traditional ways of thinking, measuring success is still important. Studies have been done using indicators such as recidivism, costs, participant satisfaction, and public perceptions. Many studies do indicate that offenders diverted to restorative justice programs tend to recidivate less, and that all who are involved in the process generally feel more satisfaction when compared to traditional methods. However, reducing the concept of restorative justice to these types of goals is a misunderstanding of the vision it attempts to accomplish.
The effects of restorative justice can best be told through stories. We invite you to read our Stories of Reconciliation. Katy and Russ' stories are particularly compelling.
For those of you who wish to find a more concrete answer, our Popular Topics section contains links to papers which evaluate RJ programs.
We also have an Introduction section (also accessible through the What is restorative justice? button above) which explains the basic values and principles of restorative justice.
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact Meredith at mlegan@sfu.ca.
Where can I find literature on restorative justice?
Our Online Library has abstracts of all literature available to be borrowed at the Centre for Restorative Justice. We also have an extensive collection of full text articles that can be viewed through your web browser.
I have a specific area of RJ in mind. Where can I find articles on it?
Check out the Popular Topics section of our website. Based on user traffic, we've determined the most popular topics related to restorative justice. We've compiled a summary of all available resources to make your search easier.
What is restorative justice like in practice?
We've recently launched our Stories of Reconciliation section. We believe that through sharing stories, the underlying values and principles of restorative justice can be conveyed.