MEDIATIONS AS PART OF RESTORATIVE JUSTICE AND THE POSSIBILITY OF ITS APPLICATION IN CHILD DELINQUENCY IN NORTH MACEDONIA

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the concept of mediation as part of restorative justice, its essential role as a mechanism for restoring damaged relationships, accepting responsibility, and the most effective process for the rehabilitation of children, as well as the possibility of its implementation in child delinquency in North Macedonia. In this review, we focus on the rules, principles, procedures, and benefits of applying mediation in child delinquency. Through the analysis of theoretical approaches, the legal framework, and existing practices in the country, this study aims to highlight the effectiveness of mediation in promoting an approach that focuses on the needs of the child and the repair of damage. The data show that mediation as part of the restorative process has shown effectiveness in reducing recidivism and in helping to rehabilitate delinquent children by providing a fairer approach to children's behaviors that conflict with the law; however, in our country, mediation has not yet been implemented to a satisfactory level. Strengthening professional capacities and increasing awareness of mediation in cases involving children is recommended to ensure its effective implementation.