EU Project Pravo-Justice Held a Training Session on Improving the Quality of Probation Programmes "Developing Life Skills" and "Overcoming Domestic Violence"

On 28 May 2025, EU Project Pravo-Justice held a training session dedicated to two probation programmes, “Developing Life Skills” and “Overcoming Domestic Violence,” at the request of the Probation Service. Over 450 probation staff members – programme coordinators – from across Ukraine participated in the training.

This event was the third training session in a series of training events organised by experts from EU Project Pravo-Justice aimed at strengthening the professional capacity of probation officers. Preceding sessions held in April focused on the implementation of programmes “Changing Pro-Criminal Mindset”, “Preventing Substance Abuse,” and “Overcoming Aggressive Behaviour”.

Olena Kochura, Key Expert on Reforming the Penitentiary System and Probation at EU Project Pravo-Justice, said that this training concluded a series of awareness-raising events dedicated to the practical implementation of probation programmes.

The programs “Developing Life Skills” and “Overcoming Domestic Violence” cover a wide range of criminogenic needs among probation clients. If we implement these programs, we can have a tangible impact on offenders’ behaviour and help them reintegrate into society. In general, international experience shows that probation programmes are one of the most effective tools for reducing reoffending, which is why it is essential to know how to implement them effectively,” said Olena Kochura.

Nataliia Stroieva, national expert at EU Project Pravo-Justice and co-author of probation programmes, who delivered the training, highlighted the practical aspects of working with probation clients.

“Probation clients often have deep-rooted behavioural problems. Therefore, it is essential not to merely go through the motions of the programme, but to be well-versed in the programme content and establish rapport with participants. That is why, at these training sessions, we openly discuss typical challenges and share experiences that have already yielded positive results,” said Nataliia Stroieva.

Olena Subotenko, Deputy Director at the Probation Centre, noted that this webinar is yet another step in the ongoing work towards improving the professional capacity of probation staff.

“Today, 1,839 probation officers, who make up 72% of the total staff, act as probation programme supervisors. Their work not only calls for theoretical knowledge but also practical skills that can help reduce reoffending and ensure that probation clients successfully reintegrate into society. We are sincerely grateful to EU Project Pravo-Justice experts for their comprehensive support, meaningful training sessions, and contributions to our capacity building, said Olena Subotenko.

After completing the training, participants noted that they had gained not only important theoretical knowledge, but also effective practical tools that they can now employ in their daily work with probation clients.