What role does community involvement play in restorative justice?

Community involvement plays a crucial role in restorative justice as it creates an environment where various stakeholders, including victims, offenders, and community members, can collectively engage in the healing process. This approach recognizes that crime affects not just the individual victim but also their families and the larger community. By involving community members, restorative justice aims to foster dialogue and understanding, allowing everyone to express their feelings and perspectives, thereby aiding in the resolution of conflict and the restoration of relationships.

The emphasis on community participation helps to create a support system for both victims and offenders, facilitating accountability and promoting healing rather than focusing solely on punishment. This holistic approach addresses the underlying issues of criminal behavior and seeks to repair the harm done to individuals and the community, rather than simply isolating the offender.