In order to equip the Probation Service of Albania with practical knowledge and skills in assessing risk and needs of violent extremist offenders (VEOs) in relation to the rehabilitation process, the Council of Europe organised a 3-day online training on “Application of the Risk and Needs Assessment tool and individual programmes of rehabilitation for violent and extremist probationers coming from conflict zones” held on 3-5 April 2024.

The aim of the training was to raise awareness and enhance practical knowledge and skills of probation officers on the tools used for the rehabilitation of VEOs in order to prepare them to future work with violent extremist probationers (especially women).

During the training the participants gained better awareness of the Council of Europe and other relevant international standards, the concept of violent extremism, foreign terrorist fighters as well as of the practical aspects of managing returnees under the probation regime. Moreover, the participants got acquainted with gender sensitive approaches towards women returnees and with the specific tools for VEOs, namely risk and needs assessment and rehabilitation programmes.

Through a case study the participants enhanced their practical skills in assessing risk and needs of VEOs, in motivational interviewing and in developing individual treatment plans for this category of probationers with emphasis on women returnees.

The participants are now equipped with practical skills and methods to support VEOs in their rehabilitation process and subsequently help them to reintegrate in the local community.

The training was held under auspices of the Regional Action “Enhancing co-operation in the Western Balkans in managing violent extremism in prisons and preventing further radicalisation after release”, and the Horizontal Facility Programme III.