Poster #240 - Truth and Reconciliation in South Africa

• In Event: ASC Poster Session II

Abstract

The implementation of Restorative Justice in South Africa has allowed their people to resolve conflicts and help heal the communities. The research on Restorative Justice as a practice in general is limited. However, existing research aims to prove that Restorative Justice is an effective approach to repairing harm done by an offender against the victim, as well as understanding why. The present research will identify the efficiency of Restorative Justice as a practice, and prove its effectiveness in the communities in South Africa more specifically. Through secondary research and literature review, it is found that though there are limitations to the Restorative Justice practice, communities who have used it have found it to be a very valuable method of healing and problem solving. These results are valuable in proving that Restorative Justice is an effective approach to promoting healing, fostering accountability and reducing recidivism in the communities impacted by crime.

Author

• Maggie Jeanne Sullivan, Southern New Hampshire University