Previous Article
News
Recap: Webinar on Alternatives to Detention 2026
On Thursday 22 January, CEP hosted the first webinar of 2026 on the topic of Alternatives to Detention. The session led by Ms. Marina Pajoni from the French Prison and Probation Service titled „Problem Solving Justice in Pracitce: The Meuse Probation Service´s Approach to Drug Addiction“ introduced an innovative programme developed by the Meuse Probation Service in close cooperation with the French Ministry of Justice.
Attended by more than 35 participants from across Europe and world, it aimed to explore how a problem solving justice approach to drug related offences contributes to preventing reoffending through strong multidisciplinary cooperation and a clear rehabilitative focus. The programme that won the CEP Award 2025 in the category of Rehabilitation and Social Inclusion (The Sue Hall Award) offers a combination of social support and judicial supervision. In addition to probation practitioners, the specialists working within the programme are specialized in addictology, criminology, victimology, motivational interviewing etc.
The system is based on a 10‑point model designed to ensure effective, fair, and problem-solving justice. All activities take place under the supervision of a judge, guaranteeing accountability and legal oversight. The process unfolds within a fair and public judicial court, ensuring transparency and respect for legal standards. A key component of the model is the specialization of professionals, allowing judges, probation officers, and partner organizations to work with targeted expertise. The approach focuses on problem solving approach. The system incorporates intermediate sanctions and rewards, creating a balanced response that motivates positive behavior change. To simplify access, services are coordinated through a single window or service point, making it easier for participants to receive the support they need. This model relies on partnership‑based work, involving justice actors, probation services, and external partners in health, employment, and housing. In this way, the justice system becomes integrated into the local community, strengthening social support networks and long-term reintegration. Participants undergo regular drug testing when necessary, supporting compliance and treatment goals. Finally, the framework recognizes progress through desistance rituals, symbolic moments marking change, accountability, and personal growth.
The programme is implemented within the 6 probation centres across Frances with 7 more in the implementation stage.
Presentation – to be downloaded here.
Recording of the webinar
Next Webinar will take place on Thursday 19 March 2026.
Related News
Keep up to date with the latest developments, stories, and updates on probation from across Europe and beyond. Find relevant news and insights shaping the field today.
Directors General Meetings
Online meeting for Directors General and Senior Managers in Probation
05/03/2026
On Wednesday 4 March CEP organized its annual online meeting for Directors General and Senior Managers in Probation. The session offered a comprehensive look into how CEP Expert Groups function and the value they bring across the organization. Participants gained a clearer understanding of how these groups operate, how they support CEP’s strategic priorities, and how colleagues can engage with their work—either as active members or as stakeholders who rely on their outputs.
New
Probation in Europe, Violent Extremism
New EU Knowledge Hub on Prevention of Radicalisation Newsletter
05/03/2026
The latest edition of the EU Knowledge Hub on Prevention of Radicalisation newsletter is now available.
This month’s edition highlights key activities bringing together policymakers, researchers, practitioners, victims, and representatives from victims’ associations through strategic meetings and specialised trainings across Europe and beyond. It also shares updates on preparations for the 2026 European Remembrance Day for Victims of Terrorism, reinforcing a united message of solidarity and the European Commission’s continued commitment to victim- and survivor-centred action.
Recap
Probation in Europe, Probation outside Europe
CEP at EL PACCTO Webinar
05/03/2026
On 25 February 2026, the European Union–funded EL PACCTO 2.0 Programme (Technical Assistance against Transnational Organised Crime) organised a webinar on alternative measures in the Caribbean.
Recap
Probation in Europe, Technology
CEP represented the Probation Sector at the European Judicial Training Conference on Digital Justice @2030
03/03/2026
On 26–27 February 2026, the European Commission organised the European Judicial Training Conference “Creating a Supportive Environment for Digital Justice @2030” in Nicosia, Cyprus, under the auspices of the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the EU and in cooperation with the Cyprus Judicial Training School.
New
Uncategorized
Newsletter February 2026 out now
27/02/2026
CEP’s latest newsletter is out now! Articles on the Interactive European map of probation education and training institution contacts, Registration open for the Workshop on Caseload and Workload and 14th Conference on Electronic Monitoring and more. >> Read here
New
Probation in Europe
New Division episode: Daniel Wolter on the DBH Federal Association
23/02/2026
The 18th episode of Division_Y features Daniel Wolter, Director of the DBH Federal Association for Social Work, Criminal Law and Criminal Policy, based in Cologne, Germany.
Subscribe to our bi-monthly email newsletter!
- Keep up to date with important probation developments and insights.