ABSTRACT

The Epilogue has a dual objective. First, it brings together the key normative and empirical contributions of the Handbook. It first presents the theoretical and normative proposals of Part I. Subsequently, it summarises the new empirical evidence that is presented under the various themes of Part II on new and contested areas of restorative practice such as child sexual abuse, intimate partner violence, road rage, healthcare, student misconduct, disability and architecture. It then proceeds with a reflection on the critical analyses of Part III and concludes with a discussion on the various aspirational visions of restorative justice presented in Part IV. The Epilogue’s second objective is to identify a clear path for restorative justice, as this comes into view through the Handbook’s latest evidence-based propositions. As the volumes on restorative justice continue to grow and governments from around the world invest more by drafting new policies and legislation, the Handbook uses its original data, normative contributions and critical analyses for new directions with care and responsibility.