This course is an introduction to the theory and practice of restorative justice, widely regarded as one of the most important innovations in modern justice practice. Drawing particularly on the experience of New Zealand, it traces how restorative justice has grown from small beginnings into a wider social movement for change across all sectors of society, including schools, families, workplaces and community agencies.

You will learn about:

• What restorative justice is and why it is such a significant development in recent criminal justice thought and practice
• How restorative justice emerged and spread around the world, and what the evidence is that it works
• The pioneering role New Zealand has played in incorporating restorative practices into its justice, welfare and education systems
• How restorative justice has grown from modest beginnings in the criminal justice sphere to become a global social movement for the creation of a more democratic, caring and peaceful society

This course is for anyone committed to a more just, compassionate and peaceful world. It will be of particular interest to justice professionals, educationists, social workers, community activists, conflict practitioners and policymakers.