The Office of the Deputy Governor is set to host a Restorative Justice and Pathways Conference from October 5 to 16, 2026, marking a major step toward the formal introduction of a Restorative Justice Programme in the Virgin Islands.
The conference follows a commitment made during the 2025 Virgin Islands Anti-Crime Summit and will be delivered in two parts, with sessions focused separately on the Criminal Justice and Education Systems.
The two-week conference is expected to bring 14 internationally recognised Restorative Justice experts to the Territory. Featured guests will include The Right Honourable Dame Janice M. Pereira, His Lordship the Hon. Justice Alvin Pariagsingh of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, Her Ladyship the Hon. Justice Angelica Teelucksingh, as well as senior leaders from the Government of the Virgin Islands.
Deputy Governor Mr. David D. Archer, Jr. said the initiative builds on legislative work undertaken throughout the year and will provide an opportunity for public officers and community members to learn more about restorative approaches to justice.
“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. 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 first phase of the conference, taking place from October 5 to 8, will focus on the criminal justice system, with public officers from various government departments participating in sessions designed to explore restorative justice practices.
The second phase, scheduled for October 12 to 16, will turn its attention to education. Educators will participate in sessions focused on introducing restorative justice approaches into classrooms and the wider education system. A smaller group of educators will also take part in targeted training that will lead to official certification.
Planned sessions will address topics including Strengthening Victim Voice, Community Partnership in Justice and Prevention, Youth Justice, Sustaining Justice Reform and Building Restorative Classrooms.
The Office of the Deputy Governor is encouraging members of the public to follow official channels for updates on the conference and information about opportunities to attend selected sessions.
The conference forms part of the Government’s broader efforts to strengthen the administration of justice and establish an effective Restorative Justice Programme in the Virgin Islands.