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Ministry of Justice Launches Innovative Probationer Orientation Program
The Probationer Orientation Course, a ground-breaking initiative by the National Agency for Crime Prevention, Enforcement, and Probation, aims to curb recidivism among low-risk probationers while empowering probation officers in this vital process.
This program marks a pivotal shift by amplifying the role of probation officers in crime prevention efforts. It offers low-risk probationers the opportunity to undertake an orientation course. Upon completion, they can lead similar courses alongside probation officers, ensuring a continuous cycle of learning and mentorship. Furthermore, successful completion of the program will be a positive factor considered in decisions regarding the cancellation of conditional sentences and regime easing.
The curriculum encompasses various thematic areas, including psychosocial skills development, literacy and employment promotion, legal education, and the unique challenges faced by women within the justice system.
Participants will gain invaluable insights into:
- Employment rights and social support systems;
- Emotional regulation techniques;
- Effective communication and conflict resolution strategies;
- Combatting prejudice and stigma;
- Promoting physical and mental well-being and recognizing unhealthy behaviors;
Additionally, the program exposes participants to diverse career pathways.
Probation officers nationwide have been carefully chosen to pilot this course.
The launch of the probationer orientation course was officiated by Minister of Justice, Rati Bregadze, with remarks from Lado Kheladze, Head of the National Agency for Crime Prevention, Enforcement of Non-custodial Sentences, and Probation.
Deputy Minister of Justice, Buba Lomuashvili, commended the probation officers who completed the training, wishing them success in their future endeavors. These officers will be at the forefront in piloting the course in Georgia and facilitating its expansion.
The orientation program for probationers is conducted by agency specialists, with expert input and support from the US Bureau of International Anti-Narcotics and Law Enforcement Cooperation (INL), in collaboration with the Training Center of Justice.
The event saw the participation of Deputy Ministers of Justice, representatives from NGOs, Prime Minister's Advisor on Human Rights Protection, Niko Tatulashvili, Deputy Chief Prosecutor, Natia Merebashvili, and Deputy Minister of Education, Science, and Youth of Georgia, Tamar Makharashvili.