Restorative justice programmes are based on the belief that the parties involved in or affected by crime ought to participate actively in repairing the harm, alleviating the suffering that it caused and, whenever possible, taking steps to prevent the reoccurrence of the harm. This approach is also seen as a means to promote tolerance and inclusiveness, uncover truth, encourage the peaceful expression and resolution of conflict, build respect for diversity and promote responsible community practices.

The main objective of this handbook is to provide, in a clear and concise fashion, an overview of the merits of restorative justice programmes and of good practices in their design and implementation. The handbook covers a wide range of issues concerning restorative justice programmes: applicable standards; various types of programmes; programme design and implementation issues; the dynamics of restorative justice interventions; programme development and operation and the mobilization of community assets; as well as programme monitoring and evaluation. The emphasis is on presenting information and examples that will be useful in the development of new programmes in a variety of social, cultural and legal contexts.