What do some victims' groups believe regarding restorative justice initiatives?

Some victims' groups believe that restorative justice initiatives are too centered around the offender because these approaches prioritize the offender's needs and rehabilitation over the victim's experiences and needs. Restorative justice seeks to repair the harm caused by the crime through dialogue, accountability, and reconciliation, often placing significant emphasis on the offender's responsibility and personal growth. This emphasis can sometimes lead victims to feel sidelined in the process, as their pain and suffering may not receive the attention they desire or need to heal. Consequently, they may view these initiatives as being overly accommodating to offenders, potentially at the expense of the victims' voices and rights. This perspective underscores the tension between offender rehabilitation and victim restoration in restorative justice practices.