Michael was pleased to be part of a team from the WayFinders Group delivering mediation training in St Kitts and Nevis, organised by the Society of Mediators.
The programme was aimed at strengthening local capacity in restorative justice and criminal mediation, and was designed to equip participants with the knowledge, tools and practical skills needed to support more effective conflict resolution within the justice system. It placed strong emphasis on promoting dialogue, accountability, rehabilitation and constructive engagement between parties affected by crime and conflict.
The initiative forms part of the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis’ ongoing efforts to strengthen and modernise the country’s criminal justice system through the development of a comprehensive restorative justice framework. The Society of Mediators worked in partnership with the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis, through the Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Restorative justice is increasingly being viewed both in the Caribbean and internationally as an important tool in improving justice outcomes by focusing not only on punishment, but also on accountability, rehabilitation, victim participation and community healing.
The aim is to build a more responsive, people-centred justice system in St. Kitts and Nevis, with mediation and restorative practices expected to play a growing role.
Michael said:
I was delighted to be asked to be part of this training in St Kitts. Alternative Dispute Resolution more broadly is an important part of our justice system in the UK, and there is some groundbreaking legislation being proposed for St Kitts. I look forward to following developments on their new laws.