Introducing restorative approaches in prison settings: An example of a victim awareness program in Serbia

Restorative justice is implemented in a variety of fields, contexts and situations worldwide today. One possible way of implementing restorative justice is introducing restorative approaches into prison settings. It is argued that restorative justice can bring more humanity into prison systems; it may help in the treatment of prisoners and contribute to their preparation for release and reintegration. Introducing victims’ perspectives, either through their direct involvement in prison restorative justice programs or through initiatives that raise inmates’ awareness of victims and their rights, needs and feelings, contributes to victims’ visibility, empowerment and healing. The chapter presents experiences in developing and implementing a program in the women’s prison in Serbia that raises awareness about restorative justice and the impact of a crime on a victim. The authors assess the program and recommend the need for broader use of restorative justice approaches in Serbian prison settings for both adults and juveniles