Community cohesion refers to the strength and quality of relationships, connections, and solidarity within a community and is characterised by mutual respect, shared values, trust amongst key stakeholders and a sense of belonging among all members, regardless of their background or circumstances. Within communities, empowered individuals and groups are equipped with the skills, confidence, and authority to participate actively in decision-making processes that affect their lives.
Restorative justice, as a community-led initiative, fosters community cohesion by emphasising power-sharing values and inclusive decision-making. By involving all affected parties in dialogues, it promotes participation and collaboration, empowering citizens to resolve conflicts and address harms together. This approach builds trust and mutual respect, strengthening social bonds and reinforcing a collective sense of responsibility within the community.
Community voice through restorative justice circles
As part of RJ4All Europe’s mission to empower communities through the principles and practices of restorative justice, we have pioneered the “Speak-up community forums”.
These forums take the shape of a restorative justice circle and through the dissemination of power allow for safe dialogue to take place. Restorative justice is more than a practice. It is an ethos and a methodology, and the Speak-up forums demonstrate this in practice.
We hold these forums internally but also for other organisations.
Our Speak Up circles can be used to bring communities together to voice their concerns, speak to each other and regain power. They can also be used in conferences, consultation events and training sessions. We use the values (e.g. power sharing, equality, dignity and respect) and practices (e.g. circles) to hold these events which are usually chaired by RJ4All’s Founder and Director, Professor Theo Gavrielides, PhD.
At RJ4All Europe, we believe that power abuse is the biggest silent driver of inequalities, human rights violations and community tensions. We want to root out greed and disseminate power in a more equal way. Restoring trust and building stronger and resilient communities cannot be treated through quick-fix solutions. They are long-term ambitions that require participation and the dissemination of power through community dialogue such as the one we offer through these events.
FAQs
When are they held?
Internally, when needed. We can also organise them for external organisations and conferences. To discuss and to receive a quote email T.Gavrielides@rj4all.org
Who attends?
Our Speak-up model has worked successfully with residents, business owners, parents, councillors, young people, entrepreneurs, conference participants, researchers, and key decision makers.
How do they work?
They are held in person or online. An RJ4All expert will act as the Keeper of the Circle and facilitate discussions in the form of a a restorative justice circle. You can opt in (and out) to join the discussion when you feel comfortable to.
Watch our 1-minute video to see Speak Up events in practice
