Representatives of Kosovo’s probation, correctional and other relevant institutions gathered in Pristina to strengthen their skills and co-operation in support of a more efficient rehabilitation, reintegration and post-release process for violent extremist prisoners and offenders.

The Kosovo Probation Service and practitioners were part in an intensive training on Core Correctional Skills introducing to probation professionals core research and skills required for an effective community supervision and support to the various users of probation service, including violent extremist offenders. It emphasised the importance of strengthening co-operation between correctional and probation services and ensuring continuity between custodial rehabilitation, conditional release and community-based supervision.

Another activity, held on 24 September 2026 in Pristina, focused on identifying post-penal rehabilitation and reintegration needs and assessing progress in the rehabilitation of violent extremist prisoners in prison, probation and community settings. The meeting was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the probation and correctional services, local multidisciplinary teams, social welfare and health services, the Employment Agency and the education sector. They discussed the importance of a whole-of-society approach in prevention and countering violent extremism, involving institutions and community actors at both central and local levels. Such an approach is essential for ensuring co-ordinated, comprehensive and sustainable support for individuals returning to the community after incarceration.

The discussions further examined the roles, responsibilities and procedures of relevant institutions, while identifying areas requiring structural and procedural improvement. Timely communication, information-sharing and clearly defined standard operating procedures were highlighted as key conditions for effective rehabilitation, resocialisation and reintegration.

These activities were implemented by the regional action “Enhancing co-operation in the Western Balkans in managing violent extremism in prisons and preventing further radicalisation after release”, with the support of the European Union and Council of Europe joint programme.

*This designation is without prejudice to positions on status, and is in line with UNSCR 1244 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo Declaration of Independence.