WHERE /

In the Field

Where We Work

Our network runs programs in prisons around the world that restore prisoners’ lives, help their families and successfully integrate them back into the community — for good.

We work in more than 100 countries through multi-denominational, indigenous and autonomous National Ministries (chartered affiliates). This grassroots presence enables ministry to prisoners and their families in culturally relevant ways, in partnership with 46,000 local volunteers. PFI supports National Ministries through program partnerships, strategic funding and leadership training, among a variety of other services focused on building capacity to deepen impact.

This overview provides a snapshot of our work — past and present — in regions around the world.

Africa
• Recovering indigenous justice practices that focus on restoration
• Use of community service to address chronic prison overcrowding
• National restorative responses to genocide and civil war
• South African Truth and Reconciliation Commission

Asia
• Focuses on juvenile justice
• Regularizes indigenous practices that focus on restoration
• Focuses on peacemaking and reconciliation in divided societies

Europe
• Addresses juvenile justice
• Focuses on alternatives to paramilitary violence in Northern Ireland
• Addresses justice reform needs in Eastern Europe

Latin America
• Justice reforms to counteract increasing rates of crime and violence while increasing citizen confidence in justice systems
• National reconciliation efforts after years of civil war
• Communities looking for alternative ways of addressing violence and conflict to create a culture of peace

Middle East
• Restorative justice is related to the use of traditional processes for conflict resolution while others deal with child welfare or juvenile justice issues

North America and the Caribbean
• Rose out of indigenous practices of First Nations people, discontent with the justice system, and a need to meet the needs of victims
• Used in prison, schools, and child welfare issues

Pacific
• Well established as a manner of responding to crime
• Holds roots in indigenous practices
• Used to address crime, school discipline, and other types of conflicts

Learn More
Support the cause

We've Been Restoring Justice for More Than 40 Years

Your donation helps Prison Fellowship International repair the harm caused by crime by emphasizing accountability, forgiveness, and making amends for prisoners and those affected by their actions. When victims, offenders, and community members meet to decide how to do that, the results are transformational.

Donate Now