Recap: online Expert Group meeting on Research

The Expert Group gathered to learn about ongoing research activities by its members, discuss strategic priorities, explore practical implementation of the newly developed Research and Development Strategy, and strengthen collaboration among members.

Adopted by the General Assembly in October 2025, the Research and Development Strategy is a key strategic document aimed at improving the scale, effectiveness, and quality of CEP’s engagement with research and knowledge exchange activities, in support of CEP’s mission—especially in relation to the professionalization and promotion of probation. Following the four strategic priorities, the CEP Board, with the support of the Expert Group on Research, is preparing to implement the actions outlined in the strategy. During its meeting on 28 November, the Expert Group facilitated an in-depth discussion on translating RSD priorities into practical measures. To coordinate and implement the RSD strategy in practice, a new Research Policy Officer will be hired in 2026. The Expert Group supported the CEP office in drafting the initial framework for the role of this new colleague.

The group then delved into a discussion on the future update of Probation in Europe. A new strategy is being developed to update the chapters with a focus on clear descriptions of national probation systems, addressing both traditional topics and emerging trends.

The next face-to-face meeting will take place in February 2026.