Role of Village Headman in Restorative Justice Procedure: A Case Study of Domestic Violence in Nakhon Nayok Province

Abstract

This study aimed to: (1) examine the roles of village headmen in implementing restorative justice processes to address domestic violence; (2) identify factors influencing the effectiveness of their roles in resolving domestic violence-related crimes; and (3) propose guidelines for enhancing the capacity of village headmen to prevent and address domestic violence through restorative justice mechanisms in Nakhon Nayok Province. This qualitative study employed a semi-structured in-depth interview approach with 20 key informants. The participants consisted of eight village headmen, four family members who had experienced domestic violence and received assistance from village headmen, five community residents, and three government officials who worked closely with village headmen. Data were analyzed using content analysis to identify key themes and patterns related to restorative justice practices and community-based conflict resolution.

The findings revealed that village headmen perform significant roles in restorative justice through three major dimensions: prevention, mediation, and rehabilitation. In the preventive dimension, they monitor risk behaviors, raise public awareness regarding domestic violence, and coordinate collaboration among local stakeholders. In the mediation dimension, they intervene in disputes, facilitate communication among conflicting parties, explain legal implications, and support mutually agreed resolutions based on trust and community acceptance. In the rehabilitation dimension, they monitor post-mediation outcomes, facilitate referrals to social welfare and healthcare services for victims, and support the reintegration of offenders into the community. Factors contributing to the effectiveness of village headmen included public trust and legitimacy, legal knowledge and mediation skills, collaborative community networks, and understanding of local socio-cultural contexts. Major challenges included cultural norms that regard domestic violence as a private family matter, limited resources and incentives, the complexity of recurring violence cases, and the absence of long-term monitoring systems. The study suggests that strengthening the role of village headmen requires the development of standardized mediation guidelines, continuous training in legal knowledge and risk assessment, the establishment of multidisciplinary referral networks, and the provision of adequate welfare and institutional support. These measures can enhance the effectiveness of restorative justice in preventing and addressing domestic violence at the community level and contribute to sustainable social peace.