RESTORATIVE JUSTICE AND CONFLICT MEDIATION: POSSIBLE PATHS TOWARD A CULTURE OF PEACE AND RECIDIVISM PREVENTION

Abstract

The persistence of violence and criminal recidivism challenges the effectiveness of traditional criminal justice models, which are predominantly punitive and retributive. In this context, Restorative Justice and Conflict Mediation emerge as alternative approaches capable of rebuilding social ties, promoting active accountability, and fostering a culture of peace. This article aims to analyze the theoretical and practical foundations of Restorative Justice, as well as discuss the potential of mediation as a tool for peaceful conflict resolution and recidivism prevention. The methodology employed is qualitative, exploratory, and bibliographical, grounded in scholars such as Howard Zehr, Kay Pranis, Nils Christie, and Rubens Casara, as well as in normative documents and Brazilian restorative experiences. The main findings suggest that Restorative Justice, by prioritizing dialogue among victim, offender, and community, enables more humanized, restorative, and effective processes in breaking the cycle of violence. Mediation, in turn, contributes to the democratization of access to justice and the re-signification of interpersonal conflicts. It is concluded that these practices should not be viewed as replacements for the penal system, but as complementary and integrative mechanisms that broaden the concept of justice beyond punishment. Building a culture of peace requires structured implementation of such strategies, ongoing training of justice professionals, effective public policies, and community empowerment.