Community of Restorative Researchers

Contact Information

• Where – United Kingdom
• Contact Person – Ian D. Marder
• Email – i.marder@leeds.ac.uk
• Other – Facebook,

Areas of Expertise

The Community of Restorative Researchers has expertise in a range of areas, including:

• Transitional, Restorative and Retributive Justice

Main Aims and Objectives

The Community of Restorative Researchers is an international, interdisciplinary and interprofession research network. Its purpose is twofold: firstly, to create a free and open medium through which those with a research interest in restorative theory and/or practice can connect, share and collaborate with others involved in similar lines of inquiry; secondly, to connect the worlds of policy and practice, as well as the public sphere, to that of research. Enhancing communication and collaboration between those involved in restorative practices in different capacities is essential, if we expect to maximise the benefits and minimise the risks of the growing use of restorative practices as a response to crime and conflict.

Upholding the Principles of Conflict Transformation

The Community of Restorative Researchers see conflict as neutral, and thus whether it becomes toxic or useful is dependant on how it is interpreted and responded to. Restorative Practice is based on the assumption that people are happier, more cooperative and productive, and more likely to make positive changes when those in positions of authority do things with them rather than to or for them. CRR believes in a combination of preventative and reactive efforts to satisfy the needs and interests of all stakeholders to a conflict, and that conflict transformation is the next stage after conflict management and resolution – and is essential for sustained peace.

Where and with Whom

The Community of Restorative Researchers has over 600 members from across 30 countries. These members are academics, students, policymakers, practitioners and project managers drawn from the criminal justice, education, housing, social care and third sectors, inter alia. CRR also has an International Advisory Board made up of members from 12 jurisdictions.

Main Activities in the Field of Conflict Transformation

The Community of Restorative Researchers is a new organisation. At this time, it has engaged in three small research projects and held one conference (with funding for another in November and plans for another next year). CRR is currently working with other restorative organisations to set up the Restorative Action Without Borders Taskforce, which will use restorative practices to understand the needs and interests of refugees and use group psychotherapy processes to address their trauma. CRR also raises public awareness of restorative practice, and encourage organisations to provide free, open access to researchers to ensure that it is done as safely and effectively as possible.