BVI to Host Landmark Restorative Justice and
Fourteen international experts will travel to the Territory this October for the landmark Restorative Justice and Pathways Conference. The two-week initiative aims to modernize the Virgin Islands' criminal justice and education systems while advancing forthcoming legislation.
The Office of the Deputy Governor has announced plans to host a landmark Restorative Justice and Pathways Conference from October 5 to 16, 2026, marking a major step in the Territory's efforts to modernize conflict resolution, education, and public safety. Fourteen internationally recognised restorative justice experts will visit the Virgin Islands to facilitate the two-week event.
The conference follows through on key commitments established during the 2025 Virgin Islands Anti-Crime Summit to formally introduce a structured Restorative Justice Programme across the Territory. Alongside event preparations, government officials are actively finalizing drafting instructions for comprehensive legislation designed to establish a lasting legal framework for restorative practices.
Archer, Jr. emphasized that the initiative builds on extensive legislative groundwork completed throughout the year and will serve as an invaluable capacity-building platform for hundreds of local stakeholders. "The Office of the Deputy Governor has done significant work in Restorative Justice since making our commitment at The Virgin Islands Anti Crime Summit last year," Deputy Governor Archer stated. "We are completing drafting instructions for a comprehensive piece of legislation on the subject, and this conference will stand as an incredible learning opportunity for over 300 public officers and members of the community.
Our intention is for as many stakeholders as possible to be in the rooms and learn about how they can impact change in our communities through Restorative Justice." The conference will unfold across two dedicated phases. The first phase, running from October 5 to 8, will engage public officers across various government agencies in sessions specifically tailored to the criminal justice system.
The second phase, scheduled for October 12 to 16, will center on the education sector. Educators and school personnel will participate in practical workshops focused on embedding restorative justice into classrooms and school culture. A select cohort of educators will also undertake specialized training to receive official certification in restorative practices.
Featured speakers and distinguished guests will include former Chief Justice of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court Dame Janice M. Pereira, His Lordship the Honourable Justice Alvin Pariagsingh, and Her Ladyship the Honourable Justice Angelica Teelucksingh, alongside senior leaders from the Government of the Virgin Islands.
Key session topics planned across the fortnight include Strengthening Victim Voice, Community Partnership in Justice and Prevention, Youth Justice, Sustaining Justice Reform, and Building Restorative Classrooms. The Office of the Deputy Governor encourages community members and stakeholders to follow official government channels for upcoming announcements regarding schedule details and opportunities to attend selected public sessions.
Primary source: BVI Government