Honouring Community Volunteers: CEP and Japan Hogoshi Federation sign new Affiliation Agreement

On 15 April 2026, CEP President Annie Devos signed an Affiliation Agreement with the Japan Hogoshi Federation (JHF), marking an important step in strengthening international cooperation between organisations rooted in community-based support systems.

The agreement recognises the shared mission of both organisations.

Through this affiliation, CEP and JHF commit to closer collaboration by sharing information, research and good practices, and by exploring opportunities to participate in each other’s events and activities. A key focus of the agreement is to enhance global awareness of the essential role played by community volunteers and to further develop innovative approaches that strengthen volunteer-based support systems.

The agreement also opens the door to developing a more structured international network of cooperation between volunteers and practitioners working in the field of community justice.

World Congress on Community Volunteers, held as part of the World Congress on Probation and Parole in Bali, had CEP’s active engagement as the event was moderated by CEP Vice-President Daniel Danglades. This further underlines CEP’s commitment to strengthening the role of community volunteers at an international level.

New CEP-Hogoshi partnership, underscores the importance of recognising, supporting and connecting those who dedicate their time and effort to helping others rebuild their lives within the community as the best new achievement in light of 17 April – International Day for Community Volunteers.