“Dealing with Conflict Constructively” Restorative Cities in Europe Conference

The Restorative Cities in Europe international conference, convened by the University of Pécs Faculty of Law on 25 September 2026, brought together global voices in crime prevention, conflict resolution, and urban civic dialogue.

Available in both in-person and online formats, the summit offered an interdisciplinary platform to evaluate how restorative frameworks can rebuild social trust, resolve systemic tension, and foster resilient community ties across European municipalities.

Opening the gathering, dr. Ágoston Mohay, Dean of the Faculty of Law, emphasised the broader significance of applying restorative concepts to municipal governance. "Conferences which take an innovative approach and try to make us think about novel approaches to how we think about justice as a whole are always welcome," noted Professor Mohay during his welcome address.

Renowned international practitioner and author Dr Marian Liebmann OBE shared actionable strategies developed through Restorative Bristol and Resolve West.The conference featured a distinguished roster of internationally recognised keynotes and field leaders. Professor Emeritus Ivo Aertsen from the KU Leuven Institute of Criminology brought foundational research from the landmark Leuven Restorative City initiative, emphasising victim participation and mediation frameworks. 

Clinical psychologist Vidia Negrea, former regional representative for the International Institute for Restorative Practices, offered insights into implementing family group conferencing and school-based restorative practices across Central and Eastern Europe. European Forum for Restorative Justice board member Cristina Vasilescu examined how local efforts like Como Restorative City transition into scalable public policy, whilst dr. Csongor Herke of the host university’s Faculty of Law outlined the legal and institutional steps required to establish restorative models in host cities.

Complemented by contributions from specialised the assembly bridged high-level academic theory with hands-on ground experience. Participants explored practical applications ranging from juvenile justice and family support to civic mental health, marking an essential milestone in the European movement towards human-centred urban governance.