Restorative Justice and Civil Society

Book excerpt: Advocates of restorative justice question the state's ability to deliver satisfactory justice to the community, both in criminal and other cases. This collaborative 2001 volume looks at the burgeoning restorative justice movement and considers the relationship between restorative justice and civil society, examining debates and exploring ideas about who should 'control' restorative justice, the state or civil society. A diverse range of chapters, written by leaders in the field, engage with different aspects of restorative justice. Genuinely international, the book addresses aspects of civil society including schools, families, churches and private workplaces, the women's movement, victims of crime and indigenous groups. It also considers broader issues such as democracy, human rights, access and equity. A dynamic and provocative volume, this book attempts to bring the ideals of restorative justice to life so that victims, offenders, their families and communities have more of a say in the justice process.