ADVANCEMENTS IN RESTORATIVE JUSTICE FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH: OUTCOMES OF THE i-RESTORE PROJECTS IN ALBANIA, GREECE, ESTONIA, ROMANIA AND THE NETHERLANDS
ADVANCEMENTS IN RESTORATIVE JUSTICE FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH: OUTCOMES OF THE i-RESTORE PROJECTS IN ALBANIA, GREECE, ESTONIA, ROMANIA AND THE NETHERLANDS

Summary/Abstract: This article outlines the outcomes, present state, and strategies for progressing toward a more restorative society as demonstrated by the i-RESTORE projects. Within the justice system, restorative justice has been found to decrease re-offending rates by as much as 27%, and it often leaves victims feeling content with the process. In educational settings, restorative practices promote respect among students, facilitate conflict resolution, and address issues like bullying and school violence. In the community, mediation services serve as a valuable resource, illustrating how individuals can independently resolve their conflicts with the guidance of skilled professionals. The i-RESTORE 2.0 project, executed between 2022 and 2024, extends the work initiated during the first phase of the i-RESTORE project, which took place from 2019 to 2021. Phase I concentrated on encouraging the adoption of restorative justice in cases involving child victims of crime and enhancing the skills of justice professionals. Building upon the achievements of the initial project, i-RESTORE 2.0 was developed with the aim of advancing even further, striving to establish accessible and high-quality restorative justice procedures for children who come into contact with the justice system. Up to this point, the two projects have influenced more than 8,000 individuals, heightening their understanding of restorative justice processes. Furthermore, through project initiatives, over 500 justice professionals and policymakers have improved their competencies and expertise in the realm of restorative justice, while over 80 children and young people have been empowered to actively contribute to the promotion of restorative solutions.

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