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Tallinn University considers it important to create and maintain an environment where all university members are happy to teach, learn, carry out research and work. We will base the creation of this environment on the principles of restorative justice in order to create and maintain a friendly and cooperative working and learning environment. Restorative approach is based on cooperation, mutual respect and the assumption of responsibility.

Restorative practices support open communication by promoting trust and respect between the university members, which in turn creates an environment where people feel valued and heard.

Restorative approach relies on the idea that an organisation is stronger and more sustainable if its members cooperate and support each other.

At the same time, tensions (and sometimes also conflicts) form a part of life. Precisely here, it is essential to be able to solve these situations in a way that involves all parties and focuses on the mending of relations. Restorative practices help to create and support an open and honest dialogue – with oneself as well as with the other person. The sooner tensions will be handled, the easier it is to avoid escalations.

Restorative conversation

Practitioner, trainer and member of the European Forum for Restorative Justice Annegrete Johanson has described the restorative conversation as an approach based on cooperation that focuses on open and honest communication, objective listening and forward-looking approach. Its aim is to create a safe environment where people can express their thoughts, feelings and needs, finding, at the same time, new angles and solutions. ().

A restorative conversation is a structured method in which a neutral facilitator supports someone in reflecting on their internal conflict or dilemma, helping them uncover solutions from within. This approach is highly useful not only in leadership roles but also in everyday interactions between colleagues. Additionally, it can be effectively applied by friends, partners, and parents to offer support, navigate challenging situations, and deepen their relationships.

This spring, we have one more Lunch and Learn session scheduled, offering a chance to explore this approach and try it out in practice. If you're interested, don't forget to register:

Conflict mediation

Conflicts and tensions are a natural part of life, but sometimes they escalate to a point where the individuals involved are unable to resolve them on their own. To support in such situations, our university has assembled a group of trained volunteer colleagues who assist in finding constructive ways forward during moments of tension and conflict. These volunteers have completed specialized training in conflict mediation based on restorative principles and are committed to helping parties share their experiences and perspectives.

Through a focus on underlying needs, mediation enables parties to find a shared path forward and work toward improving their relationship.

Conflict mediators act as neutral facilitators, creating a shared language and a safe environment for solution-seeking dialogue. At our university, each mediation process is supported by two volunteer mediators who ensure that the discussion remains respectful, balanced, and constructive. They guide participants in clearly expressing their thoughts, feelings, needs, and concerns using various communication techniques.

Mediation can be helpful in a range of work-related conflicts—whether between colleagues, team members and supervisors, or in other collaborative situations such as between students or between a student and a lecturer.

Participation in the mediation process is entirely voluntary, and all discussions remain confidential among those involved.

If you believe mediation might be helpful in your situation, please contact Monica Klaas-Kütt, who can help assess whether mediation is appropriate and connect you with suitable mediators. You are also welcome to reach out directly to any of the colleagues listed below.