Projects
EMPRO project
EMPRO project
(Empowerment of the Framework Decisions 2008/947 and 2009/829 through EU Probation Services)
EMPRO aims to significantly strengthen the understanding and application of FD 2008/947 and 2009/829 within the European Union. It is further aligned with the overarching goals of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, contributing to a more humane and effective rehabilitation process. This encompasses highlighting the specific needs and rights of foreign nationals involved in pre-trial and post-trial phases, ensuring that justice and rehabilitation practices are equitable, effective, and respectful of fundamental rights.
To this end, EMPRO, which will be directly implemented in France, the Netherlands, Portugal, Romania, Germany, and Belgium, will deliver comprehensive hybrid training on the practical application of both FDs and the use of existing and forthcoming digital tools to assist professionals in streamlining the application of the instruments. In this way, EMPRO will capacitate justice professionals to fully understand and navigate the operational challenges in the effective application of these instruments. By embracing the use of existing and future digital tools EMPRO will contribute to streamlining effective cooperation between authorities, in full consideration of Directive 2023/2843 and Regulation 2023/2844. The activities will allow probation officers to explore their opportunities for action and leeway in promoting the application of FD 2008/947 and 2009/829.
Consequently, EMPRO will contribute to more frequent and faster recourse, when relevant, to alternatives to detention before and after the trial. It will also lay the groundwork for smoother communication among all relevant actors and enhanced cooperation at the national and European levels, particularly concerning the management of detainees from other member states. Such a new dynamic on the topic will facilitate a European-wide harmonisation of best practices and procedures within the justice and probation services sphere. The project will directly reach 600 stakeholders.
CEP is an Associated Partner to the EMPRO project.
Partner organisations
Our knowledge of Framework Decisions
Related News
Check out the latest news and updates on this project’s focus area.
Partners
Memorandum of Understanding Signed Between CEP and RESCALED
11/12/2025
On 10 December 2025, at the CEP Headquarters in Utrecht, CEP and RESCALED signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening cooperation in areas of mutual interest. The MoU was signed by Rogier Elshout, Chair of Rescaled and Jana Špero Kamenjarin, CEP Secretary General, with the signing ceremony attended by Helen De Vos, Rescaled Executive Director and Daniel Danglades, CEP Vice-President.
Through this partnership, both organizations will work together to develop joint activities, exchange expertise, and support initiatives that advance their shared objectives.
This MoU reflects a commitment to transparent communication and the creation of new opportunities for joint projects and broader community impact.
Human rights and ethics
10 December – Human Rights Day
10/12/2025
CEP champions human rights because protecting dignity, fairness and equality is at the heart of effective probation. On 10 December, Human Rights Day, CEP celebrates the principle that everyone deserves respect and justice. Across Europe, CEP promotes social inclusion and supports the reintegration of people in contact with the criminal justice system. CEP strengthens community-based alternatives to imprisonment that reduce reoffending and build safer societies, advances professional and ethical probation practice, and connects practitioners, policymakers and researchers to share knowledge and promote humane justice. For CEP, justice is not only about punishment but also about opportunity, rehabilitation and respect for all.
CEP Events
Recap: First face-to-face meeting of the Expert Group Chairs
10/12/2025
On 9 December 2025, the CEP Office in Utrecht hosted the first face-to-face meeting of the Expert Group Chairs. The purpose of this meeting was to reintroduce the work of the Expert Groups and explore connections between work plans, opportunities for cooperation, and areas of common interest.
Framework Decisions
Recap: ERA seminar “Framework Decisions 2008/947/JHA and 2009/829/JHA and their Impact on Alternatives in the EU”
09/12/2025
On 4–5 December 2025, CEP representatives Gerry McNally, Danijela Mrhar Prelić and Pia Andersson attended the ERA seminar “Framework Decisions 2008/947/JHA and 2009/829/JHA and their Impact on Alternatives in the EU” in Vilnius.
Probation in Europe, Probation outside Europe
20th anniversary of Probation Service in Türkiye
08/12/2025
CEP had the privilege of participating in the Turkish Probation System 20th Year International Congress, marking the 20th anniversary of the Probation Service in Türkiye, held from 1–3 December 2025 at ATGV in Antalya.
CEP-Europris, Probation in Europe
Recap of CEP and EuroPris Meeting with Catalan Authorities
04/12/2025
On 3 December, on the occasion of the joint CEP and EuroPris Workshop on Transition from Prison to Probation held at the Centre for Legal Studies and Judicial Training (CEJFE) in Barcelona, representatives from both international organisations met with senior officials from the Catalan Ministry of Justice to present their current work, reflect on ongoing cooperation, and explore shared priorities for future collaboration.
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