ABSTRACT

Currently, programmes are being implemented in prisons that could be classified as forms of restorative justice (see Hagemann and Robertz 2000; Umbreit and Vos 2000; Liebmann and Braithwaite 2001; Newell 2001). Belgium has recently introduced so-called restorative justice consultants, and one now works in every prison (D'Hoop and Biermans 2001; Malempre and Hodiaumont 2001). But is the concept of restorative justice compatible with imprisonment? Abolitionists have a long tradition of criticising the retributive (and the rehabilitative) approach to criminal law in general and to prison in particular. Like proponents of restorative justice, they have also argued for alternative ways of conflict resolution.