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Marking 50 Years of International Bureau

On Thursday, 15 May 2025, CEP attended the 50th anniversary symposium of the International Bureau (Bureau Buitenland) of the Dutch Probation Service (Reclassing Nederland), held at “De Lik” in Utrecht. Although the International Bureau is relatively young compared to the Dutch Probation Service with over 200 years of history, it has developed a solid track record through its international focus and strong commitment to working with volunteers. More about their work can be found at www.bureau-buitenland.nl

The day offered a diverse and thoughtful programme, including talks by Jeroen Roodenburg (Ministry of Foreign Affairs), Margarita Potseluiko (Center of Probation in Ukraine), and intervention specialist Samuël Reiziger. There were also personal experiences shared by volunteers, music by Gerson Main, and a series of breakout sessions that encouraged discussion and reflection.

As part of the event, the International Bureau hosted a booth introducing the CoPPer project. They shared information about its aims and activities, and encouraged participants to get involved. This was a valuable opportunity to connect the project with a wider audience and underline its potential impact, both for volunteers and for probation systems across Europe. The symposium concluded with the launch of the International Bureau’s new logo and website, marking the start of a new phase in their ongoing work.

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