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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

The European Union and the Council of Europe have become increasingly important players in the development of probation in Europe. CEP is not only the voice of probation in Europe, it also wants to stimulate and support initiatives of international cooperation on probation and on the implementation of EU regulations. Below you will find all the information about the implementation of Framework Decisions  2009/829/JHA and 2008/947/JHA.

Related News

Check out the latest news and updates on this project’s focus area.

Recap

CEP Events, Communication and Awareness-Raising

Recap: Conference on Public Perception of Probation

06/05/2025

From 6 to 7 May, the CEP Conference on the Public Perception of Probation in Europe took place in Antalya, Türkiye, bringing together over 100 participants from more than 20 countries. The event offered space for open discussion, exchange of experiences, and practical ideas on how probation is seen and supported across Europe.

New

Probation in Europe

New Interview Online with Felix Gerike, a survivor of a knife attack

01/05/2025

What do victims of violent crime need to recover—and what can be done to prevent such attacks?

In the latest episode of Division_Y, Jo Tein, CEP board member, speaks with Felix Gerike, a survivor of the 2023 Brokstedt knife attack in Germany. Felix played a crucial role in disarming the attacker, helping to prevent further harm. He shares his personal experience, reflections on victim support, and his views on justice and policy responses to violent crime.

Probation in Europe

New Executive Summaries for the report on Building Probation Capacity in Spanish and Italian

01/05/2025

Updated

CEP Board, Probation in Europe

New Interview Online: Maren Michels – The Role of NGOs in Probation

22/04/2025

In the newest Division_Y interview, Maren Michels, director of the Hamburg Welfare Association, shares her experiences and reflects on the vital role that NGOs play in supporting people during and after incarceration.

New

CEP Events

Want to Win a CEP Award? See How Finland Did It – Apply for 2025!

22/04/2025

We’re excited to share an exclusive interview with the winners of the Development of National Probation Services Award from the CEP Awards 2022:
The Prison and Probation Service of Finland.

New

Volunteers

International Day for Community Volunteers

17/04/2025

 17 April – International Day for Community Volunteers!
Today, we celebrate the inaugural International Day for Community Volunteers Supporting Offender Reintegration—a day dedicated to acknowledging the vital contributions of volunteers who assist individuals in their journey back into society.​
This initiative was launched during the 2nd World Congress for Community Volunteers, held alongside the 6th World Congress on Parole and Probation in The Hague (16–18 April 2024).​
At CEP, we’re proud to support the official Declaration on the International Day for Community Volunteers. We’re also actively involved in the CoPPer project—a European initiative aimed at promoting community participation in probation services. CoPPer focuses on training volunteers to support individuals under supervision, helping them access education, employment, and community connections. ​
🎥 Hear from our Secretary General in this video, sharing why this day and the CoPPer project matter:
A heartfelt thank you to all the community volunteers out there—your dedication makes a real difference.​

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