Implementing Victim-Offender Mediation in the Hungarian Penitentiary System

Restorative Justice and Reparation in Practice

Abstract

Aim: This research investigated the feasibility of introducing restorative justice offender-victim mediation in the Hungarian penitentiary system. The examination covered the theoretical and practical readiness of the personnel in charge of executing the procedure, as well as the organisational feasibility conditions at the system-wide level. It also analysed and evaluated the impact on the system.

Methodology: Two-phase empirical research was applied. During the first phase, probation officers received training in conducting mediation. During the second phase of the research, offender-victim mediations were carried out by trained staff members.

Findings: The research has shown that probation officers in the prison system are capable of independently identifying and implementing offender-victim mediation cases. It is possible to integrate this restorative justice process into the existing system with minimal organisational modifications. The research has already revealed noticeable positive feedback from prisoners, the court and the prosecution.

Value: In the course of the project, one third of the probation officers conducting the mediation process received theoretical and practical training. Observations were made regarding the changes required for the sustainable implementation of a systemic approach. The implementation of the reparation procedure is expected to result in a substantial decrease in the occurrence of recurrent offenses.