An antiracism charity has applauded the Government on its Throne Speech pledge to advance restorative justice principles in Bermuda.

Citizens Uprooting Racism in Bermuda also welcomed law reform measures and the continuation of the Commission of Inquiry into Historic Land Losses set out in the agenda.

The Throne Speech said a justice system focused on punishment failed to address the root causes of crime, adding “the Government believes in restorative justice and crime prevention, emphasising accountability, rehabilitation and personal growth”.

A spokeswoman for the charity said: “Curb is encouraged by the Government’s continued emphasis on restorative justice and crime prevention.

“The proposed reforms reflect a significant step forward in creating a more equitable and rehabilitative justice system that addresses root causes of crime while fostering accountability and healing within our communities.

“These initiatives reflect a significant step towards building a more just, equitable and responsive society.”

The charity praised the National Violence Reduction Strategy, saying it represented a “progressive shift towards justice that prioritises healing, accountability and community wellbeing”.

Curb said it supported the Government’s recognition that many laws needed to be modernised “to reflect the contemporary principles of justice”, and welcomed the reinstitution of the Law Reform Commission.

Among the reforms proposed in the Throne Speech are raising the age of criminal responsibility from 8 to 14, introducing a statutory compensation regime for those wrongly convicted of crimes, and reviewing legal aid.

The spokeswoman said: “The Government’s focus on legal reform, particularly in the areas of youth justice, wrongful imprisonment and access to legal aid is commendable.”

Curb urged legislators to give serious consideration to the findings of the Commission of Inquiry into Historic Land Losses.

The Throne Speech said that with the substantive issues in relation to the inquiry now resolved in the courts, “the legislature will again be invited to take note of the commission’s report and to consider their findings and recommendations”.

The Curb spokeswoman said: “Addressing historical land injustices is vital to Bermuda’s pursuit of racial and economic justice.”

The charity said the reforms represent a crucial moment in Bermuda’s history.

The spokeswoman added: “The Government’s focus on law reform, restorative justice and historical land losses aligns with Curb’s ongoing efforts to promote racial equity and systemic change.

“We look forward to working with policymakers, stakeholders and the wider community to ensure that these commitments lead to tangible, lasting improvements for all Bermudians.”