Community Justice

“Canada’s criminal justice system should mirror that of New Zealand’s,” an Edmonton Journal article suggests. “New Zealand has incorporated the use of community conferencing, a restorative justice programme, that has returned to a ‘back to the basics’ philosophy, accepting that ancient wisdom is needed to help criminals return to societal norms instead of using the criminal justice system. Community conferences bring together the community of people affected, directly or indirectly, by harmful behaviour of an offender. The offender, accompanied by supporters, is brought together with the victims and their supporters. In a structured environment, participants engage with constructive responses in addressing the harm that has been caused and what healing and repair is needed.”