Basis and Practices of Restorative Justice: The Case of the Ethiopian Criminal Justice System

The purpose of this study is to assess the legal and institutional basis and practice of restorative justice in Ethiopia. Unlike the traditional Ethiopian criminal justice system, which views crime as an offence against the state and often excludes victim and community participation, restorative justice views crime as a violation of relationships among victims, offenders, and the community. This study employs a qualitative research approach and descriptive research design. Data was collected through document review and interviews with five individuals selected through purposive sampling. The findings indicate that various governmental institutions, including the House of Federation, Peace Ministry, police, court, general attorney, and reconciliation commission, have legal recognition to apply restorative justice values and principles. Additionally, traditional conflict resolution mechanisms and alternative dispute resolution mechanisms have de facto recognition for resolving criminal cases. The identified models of restorative justice in Ethiopia include compromise, withdrawal of charges, probation, pardon, amnesty, plea bargaining, shuttle diplomacy, suspect rehabilitation, and reconciliation based on different laws. The study concludes that there is a need for the House of People’s Representatives to enact comprehensive legislation on restorative justice. Furthermore, the police and general attorney should create awareness about restorative justice. The implications of this study highlight the potential benefits of restorative justice in fostering community involvement and improving the effectiveness of the justice system. This study is pioneering in its detailed examination of restorative justice in the Ethiopian context, offering a foundation for further research and policy development.