Reconsidering reconciliation in restorative justice: moral, civic, and relational pathways

Reconciliation is regarded as one of the aspirations of restorative justice (RJ), yet it remains conceptually underdeveloped. This article reconceptualises reconciliation by adapting the needs-based model from social psychology to the context of RJ encounters within domestic criminal justice systems. It argues that reconciliation is best understood as a dialogical and layered process comprising three interrelated dimensions: moral recognition, civic coexistence, and relational restoration. These dimensions acknowledge that reconciliation can be partial, asymmetrical, and non-linear, without requiring forgiveness or renewed personal relationships. Building on this framework, the article identifies indicators for evaluating reconciliation and considers implications for RJ practice, policy, and research across Europe. By clarifying what reconciliation entails and what RJ encounters can realistically contribute, the article provides a theoretically grounded framework for understanding and assessing one of RJ’s most frequently invoked yet least clearly defined concepts.