Restorative justice in the 21st century: An international social movement loaded with opportunities and pitfalls

From its humble beginnings in the mid-1970s, restorative justice has developed into a worldwide social movement with policies and programs developing in numerous countries. In 2002, the United Nations endorsed restorative justice and recommends its development in all member nations.

A recent survey in the US found restorative justice policies and practices developing in nearly every state, from small pilot projects to major system-wide initiatives.

This presentation will provide an overview of restorative justice as a social movement, its achievements, opportunities present, and a small but growing number of pitfalls involving unintended negative consequences.