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.
Recap
Electronic monitoring, Technology
14th Electronic Monitoring Conference, Electronic Monitoring in a Changing World – Perception vs Reality
08/10/2026
On 6-8 October 2026, Antalya hosted the 14th Electronic Monitoring Conference “Electronic Monitoring in a Changing World – Perception vs Reality”. More than 350 participants coming from 30 countries across Europe and worldwide representing probation services, Ministries of Justice, victims´ services, EM providers, researchers as well as local participants representing the Turkish Prison and Probation Service gathered to discuss how electronic monitoring (EM) is understood by all stakeholders involved including the victims and the public, and how these perceptions compare to the evidence and experiences of those affected. While the gap between perception and reality in electronic monitoring has been recognised for over a decade, the rapid expansion of EM into areas such as victim protection, high-risk supervision and digital innovation has brought new challenges and questions to the forefront.
Recap
ITSCCS
Core Correctional Skills in Digital Probation: highlights from the 6th ITSCCS in Barcelona
05/10/2026
The sixth International Training School on Core Correctional Skills (ITSCCS) took place in Barcelona from 28 September to 2 October 2026, bringing together 26 participants for a week of learning, practical training and international exchange. Organised by the Confederation of European Probation (CEP) and the Centre for Legal Studies and Specialised Training (CEJFE), the programme focused on “Clicks and Empathy: Core Correctional Skills in Digital Probation.”
Recap
Framework Decisions
Recap: ERA workshop on Framework Decisions 829 and 947 in Bucharest
02/10/2026
CEP Vice-President Daniel Danglades, Ambassador Gerry McNally and Policy Officer Mirka Jakesova participated in the Seminar on Framework Decisions 829 and 947 and their Impact on Alternatives in the EU organized under the EU project run by the Academy of European Law on 28-29 September in Bucharest, Romania. The seminar brought together judges, prosecutors, probation practitioners, academics, and policy experts to discuss the growing role of alternatives to detention within European criminal justice systems.
New
CEP
CEP and Catalan justice leaders reaffirm longstanding cooperation
29/09/2026
Representatives of the Confederation of European Probation (CEP) met with senior officials from the Catalan Department of Justice and Democratic Quality in Barcelona on 28 September 2026, alongside the opening of the sixth International Training School on Core Correctional Skills. The meeting offered an opportunity to recognise a longstanding partnership and discuss its continued development.
Updated
Mental Health
DEADLINE EXTENDED: Call for Pilot Implementation of the European Mental Health Training Curriculum
29/09/2026
Good news for CEP members! Following requests from our members, CEP has extended the deadline to apply for the pilot implementation of the European Mental Health Training Curriculum for Probation Officers.
Recap
ITSCCS, Technology
6th International Training School opens in Barcelona with a focus on digital probation
28/09/2026
How can probation professionals use new technologies in their interactions while building trust, showing empathy and supporting change? This question is at the heart of the sixth International Training School on Core Correctional Skills, which opened in Barcelona on 28 September 2026.
Subscribe to our bi-monthly email newsletter!
- Keep up to date with important probation developments and insights.