Victim perpetrator dialogue: A way to healing and reconciliation in the judiciary

Victim perpetrator dialogue: A way to healing and reconciliation in the judiciary

Neustart, Österreich - An innovative approach to reparation of crimes is funded by the victim perpetrator dialogue in Austria. This dialogue takes place in parallel to criminal proceedings or by judgment and enables victims and perpetrators to clarify the background of crimes. The Festival Aid Association Neustart, which works closely with the judiciary, is responsible for this model. As reported, it is about dealing with the emotional and material damage that results from a crime. This is intended to strengthen personal clarification and victims to process the damage suffered. Bernd Glaeser, project manager of the victim dialogue, emphasizes that these are voluntarily and free of charge.

To support the participants in the dialogue, contact with victim protection organizations can be conveyed. The dialogue also offers perpetrators the opportunity to reflect on their actions and make reparation, which helps them to avoid relapses. If this succeeds, courts could take this into account in mitigating the judgment. This methodology will be scientifically evaluated by the end of 2026 to examine its effectiveness, reports the .

reparation in the legal context

The legal framework in Austria enables a variety of options for reparation. It is not just about material compensation, but also about the emotional aspects of healing and reconciliation between the perpetrator and the victim. The perpetrator-victim compensation enables the victim to receive a certain damage compensation, often without having to lead to a lengthy court hearing. With such a compensation, a possible criminal persecution can also be avoided, as explained in a guide from anwalt.de

This reparation plays a crucial role in the right to compensation and in the right of pain by strengthening the rights of the victims. In particular, the judicial discussion enables the deeds to be recognized and responsible, which can possibly create a bridge for healing and inner peace for those affected. The aim of these legal regulations is not only to ensure legal protection, but also to create new ways of dealing with conflict that meet today's society.