Restorative Justice Policy on the Reduction of Crime Rates in Indonesia: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Introduction: The concept of restorative justice is a popular alternative in various parts of the world for addressing unlawful acts (unlawful in the formal sense) because it offers comprehensive and practical solutions. Restorative justice aims to empower victims, offenders, families, and communities to rectify an unlawful act using awareness and remorse as the foundation for improving community life. Methods: This research employs a literature review approach, wherein the researcher collects relevant articles and literature to be examined and summarized descriptively to achieve comprehensive results and conclusions. Result: Restorative Justice is fundamentally a philosophy (a basic guideline) in out-of-court settlements using mediation or deliberation to achieve the justice desired by the parties involved in criminal law. However, more substantive rules are needed in practice to lead to a fair resolution through reconciliation, emphasizing restoration to the original state. Conclusion: Educational and awareness campaigns that can create harmonious reintegration for former offenders to return to society must be enhanced. Law enforcement officers also need to review regulations regarding implementing restorative justice to uphold the principle of justice.