By José Jesús Trujillo
Conflict resolution and the building of healthy relationships are critical aspects of any society. To address these processes effectively, conflict theory and peacebuilding have developed various methodologies and approaches, including restorative practices and mediation processes. Although both share general objectives—promoting effective communication, accountability, and reconciliation—they present key differences that must be considered to adapt intervention methodologies in the field. restorative practices They come from the ancestral traditions of indigenous cultures such as the Maori, the North American Navajos, or the first nation from Canada. In these communities, the application of justice and conflict resolution were part of community practice. When a member of the group committed an infraction according to the established order, they resorted to practices of dialogue and healing, creating meeting spaces so that all the people involved could actively participate in the resolution of the conflict (Wilhelm and Bosch, 2025).
Differences and similarities between restorative process and mediation
He restorative process It is an approach that seeks to repair the damage caused by harmful behavior, involving the victim, the offender, and the affected community. Its main objective is to restore relationships and promote accountability, understanding, and social reintegration. On the other hand, the mediation It is a method of conflict resolution where a neutral third party facilitates communication between the parties so that they reach a voluntary agreement, without necessarily addressing the emotional or social harm that may have occurred.
Differences with mediation
- Purpose: The restorative process focuses on repairing the damage and restoring relationships, while mediation seeks to reach an agreement between the parties.
- Stake: In the restorative process, the victim, the offender, and the community usually participate, while in mediation, only the conflicting parties and the mediator are involved.
- Approach: The restorative process addresses emotional and social aspects, while mediation focuses primarily on practical and legal aspects of the conflict.
Similarities with mediation
- Both processes promote communication and understanding between the parties.
- They are voluntary and confidential.
- The role of the facilitator or mediator is neutral and does not impose decisions.
Studies such as those by Strang and Braithwaite (2001) and Wachtel (2016) document the application of restorative practices in school settings, juvenile justice systems, and community programs. These studies demonstrate their capacity to reduce recidivism and improve social dynamics through community engagement. Authors such as Zehr (2015) and Lederach (2015) emphasize that These practices transform relationships, restore damaged bonds, empower victims, and allow for the reintegration of offenders into the community.. From the perspective of this research, we understand restorative practices as a conceptual and technical framework for building community and strengthening bonds, especially when addressing conflicts arising from offenses that have caused harm within the community.
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