Framing European National Policies on Restorative Justice: A Frame Analysis Approach

Abstract This study examines the policy frameworks surrounding restorative justice within the European Union (EU) member states, with a focus on the influence of the 2012 Victims’ Rights Directive as the landmark policy document. Thus, this research investigates how restorative practices are framed across various legal systems, considering definitions, implementations, and interactions with victim support services. Findings reveal a significant shift toward victim-centered restorative models in multiple EU countries following the 2012 Directive, emphasizing victim participation, consent, and impartial facilitation. However, the Directive’s impact has been inconsistent; some countries retain mediation-focused approaches, especially for minor offenses, while others incorporate more inclusive restorative practices that extend beyond mediation. Notably, countries with less prescriptive restorative justice policies often display more advanced models, suggesting that local cultural, social, and political dynamics play a pivotal role in effective implementation. This study highlights ongoing challenges in aligning restorative justice frameworks across diverse legal and cultural landscapes, advocating for future research to explore the interplay between policy, local context, and restorative practice.