The Future of Institutionalizing Restorative Processes of Juvenile Delinquency in Iran: A Case Study of the Special Police for Juveniles Bill

Document Type : Research Article

Authors

1 M.A. in Criminal law & Criminology, Department of Criminal Law & Criminology, Faculty of Law & Political Science, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran.

2 Assistant Professor, Department of Criminal Law & Criminology, Faculty of Law & Political Science, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran.

Abstract

Objective: The Research goal is to analyze of legislator’s restorative approach in the Special Police for Juveniles Bill from perspective of Restorative Justice (RJ) policies, aiming to derive insights that enhance the effectiveness of restorative processes during the bill’s approval in the Islamic Parliament of IRI. Method: The research employs descriptive-analytical methodology, case studying the Bill and comparing it with RJ policies implemented by leading countries. This approach aims to identify the most prominent restorative policies implemented by the bill. Results: This study finds ambiguity in applying multiple restorative methods aims to specialization mediation for supporting youth. Given the changing role of police in the adaptive model from facilitator to referrer, the bill's assignment of major agency to police in facilitating restorative processes demonstrates the legislator's thoughtful initiative, although it highlights the lack of mechanisms to respond to negative outcomes in police-led restorative processes. Referral challenges include inconsistent acceptance of consent by the parties, lack of oversight of judicial referrals, and potential issues during preliminary investigations. Ultimately, the pioneering distinctions of the Iranian restorative policymaking are highlighted while taking future challenges into account. Conclusions: The results indicate that to effectively implement RJ, the bill requires fundamental revisions, including clear criteria for the selection of process, specialized training for facilitators and referring authorities, strengthening restorative culture in criminal organizations, unifying the legislator’s approach to party consent in referrals, ensuring oversight of referral system, and adopting appropriate mechanisms for violent crimes.

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Main Subjects

References

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Criminal Law Doctrines
Volume 22, Issue 30 - Serial Number 30
December 2025
Pages 297-336

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History

  • Receive Date: 03 November 2025
  • Revise Date: 17 February 2026
  • Accept Date: 18 February 2026
  • Publish Date: 22 December 2025

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