Restorative Justice in Icelandic Prisons: A Path to Healing and Reintegration?

This study investigates restorative justice's role in reintegrating incarcerated individuals in Icelandic prisons. Employing a quantitative approach, it analyses survey data from inmates across Iceland to assess restorative justice's potential in reducing recidivism, enhancing offender accountability, and supporting community reintegration. Regression modeling reveals a partly significant link between participation in restorative justice programs and positive reintegration outcomes. Results suggest that restorative justice may enhance offender empathy, improve victim-offender relationships, and bolster support networks post-release, albeit with constraints. The research recommends expanding these programs in Icelandic correctional settings, offering insights for policymakers, prison administrators, and criminologists pursuing evidence-based restorative and rehabilitative justice strategies.