Distinguished Professor John Braithwaite from The Australian National University (ANU) has been awarded the 2024 International Balzan Prize for Restorative Justice. 

A criminologist specialising in restorative justice, Professor Braithwaite’s work focuses on rehabilitating offenders through reconciliation with victims and the broader community.

He was one of four winners of the annual prizes by the International Balzan Foundation, which recognise achievements in the humanities and natural sciences with a prize of approximately $1.3 million (750,000 Swiss francs), half of which must be invested back into research. 

Professor Braithwaite’s award highlights his contributions to the theoretical development and dissemination of contemporary restorative justice, his commitment to social institutions and community-building and his extensive work in scholarly dissemination.

His dedication to fostering the cultural growth of younger generations in the values of restorative justice was also a significant factor in this recognition.

Professor Braithwaite founded the ANU School of Regulation and Global Governance (RegNet) and leads Peacebuilding Compared; a 35-year comparative project designed to follow all the major armed conflicts around the world until 2030. The project aims to uncover key elements for successful and sustainable peace-building.

The Balzan Prize is presented annually by the International Balzan Foundation to honour exceptional achievements in the humanities and natural sciences by individuals who have made significant contributions on a global scale.

This year’s prizes will be awarded on November 21 in Rome.

Read more about the Balzan Prizes here.

This article was first published by The School of Regulation and Global Governance (RegNet).