On 15–16 October 2025, seven healthcare professionals from the Institute of Forensic Psychiatry of Kosovo (IFPK) took part in a two-day study visit to Austria, organised by the Council of Europe, to exchange experiences and learn from Austrian best practices in the treatment, rehabilitation, and resocialisation of forensic patients.

Hosted by the Clinic for Forensic Patients of the Penzing Hospital in Vienna and the Forensic Therapeutic Centre in Göllersdorf, the participants benefited from an insight into clinical procedures, treatment protocols, and legal frameworks governing forensic psychiatry in Austria.

Participants were introduced to the clinic’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) methods for managing aggressive behaviour under penal conditions, and the treatment of individuals undergoing compulsory psychiatric measures. Discussions further covered individual treatment planning, inter-institutional cooperation, and the interaction between medical experts, prosecutors, and judges within the legal process.

The visit also examined the legal proceedings preceding admission and release, including expert evaluations, daily reporting systems, and procedures for communication with the courts. Participants learned about psychological testing methods, the role of occupational therapy, therapeutic weekends, and home visits as part of comprehensive reintegration strategies for patients preparing for release.

Through direct engagement with Austrian peers, the IFPK professionals gained valuable insights into multidisciplinary approaches, inter-agency coordination, and practical tools for improving the treatment and rehabilitation of forensic patients in line with the European standards.

The Council of Europe sincerely thanks the management and the staff of the Penzing Hospital in Vienna and the Forensic Therapeutic Centre in Göllersdorf for their warm hospitality, the time dedicated to the visits, and their openness in sharing experiences and best practices. Their commitment and cooperation greatly contributed to the success of the study visit and in strengthening professional ties between Austrian and Kosovo* forensic psychiatry institutions.

This activity is part of the Council of Europe’s ongoing efforts to support further development of the IFPK and to strengthen human-rights-compliant treatment and care of persons with mental disorders in closed institutions, implemented as part of the of the Council of Europe Project “Improvement of the treatment of persons deprived of liberty” co-funded through voluntary contributions of Belgium, Germany, Ireland, Norway, and the Council of Europe.

* All references to Kosovo, whether to the territory, institutions, or population, in this text shall be understood in full compliance with United National Security Council Resolution 1244 and without prejudice to the status of Kosovo.