Compensation
Compensation
Compensation is a mechanism within Ayaawk through which harm is acknowledged and balance is restored. It is not understood as punishment or payment in exchange for wrongdoing, but as a means of addressing loss, repairing relationships, and reaffirming responsibility.
Compensation responds to material, social, and relational harm. When an action results in loss or disruption, compensation is guided by the nature and extent of that harm rather than by fixed measures. What is required is determined through witnessing, instruction, and accumulated knowledge of what has restored balance in similar circumstances.
Compensation carries responsibility rather than blame. Those responsible for harm are expected to contribute toward repair in a manner that demonstrates acknowledgment of impact and commitment to preventing further imbalance. Compensation may take many forms, including goods, labor, support, or other contributions appropriate to the situation.
Within Ayaawk, compensation is closely connected to public accountability and witnessing. Compensation that is not witnessed lacks legitimacy, and compensation that does not restore relationships is considered incomplete. Proper compensation strengthens trust, affirms correction, and supports continuity within the wilp and the wider community.
Compensation fulfills its purpose when balance is restored and relationships are renewed. When compensation fails to address harm or is treated as a substitute for responsibility, law remains unfinished.