From international to the interpersonal: a restorative look at Human Rights conflict.

Source: (2010) Paper presented at the IIRP 13th World Conference in Hull, UK, 13-15 October.

As restorative practices have proven effective in many fields, including education,
criminal justice, interpersonal psychology, and social work, there is reason to believe that such
methods would be of value on a more international level, particularly with regard to human
rights. All across the globe one can witness the tension that exists between promoting greater,
more universal human rights and securing the traditions and values of given cultures. Both are
worthy objectives, and it is wrong to think that universal human rights and cultural identity
cannot coexist. Restorative practices, and especially the questioning that is such an integral part
of the process, can serve as practical tools in creating a better understanding of the relationship
between human rights and cultural appreciation, and in creating a greater transnational dialogue
on how to cope with such important issues.