What is the goal and objective of the action?

This project aims to strengthen the rule of law and fundamental rights protection in Serbia, in line with EU and Council of Europe standards, focusing on people deprived of liberty and especially those living with mental health challenges. By strengthening the way institutions assess, treat, and support these individuals, the project helps protect their dignity and fundamental rights in line with European human rights standards.

Who benefits from the action?

The project supports the Ministry of Justice – Prison Administration in improving treatment inside prisons, expanding the use of alternative sanctions, and creating stronger support networks for people returning to society. Additionally, the Ministry of Health and civil society organizations will also benefit from the project activities.

How does the action work?

The work is organised around three key areas:

1. Better mental health care in prisons

Development of modern tools, treatment protocols, and programmes to ensure that prisoners with mental health needs—including forensic patients—receive appropriate and humane support.

2. More effective use of alternative sanctions

Development of new treatment programmes and improving the work of the Commissioners’ Service so that individuals can benefit from well-structured alternatives to imprisonment, with better guidance and monitoring.

3. Stronger post-release support

Building cooperation among institutions and developing new programmes to help former prisoners—especially the most vulnerable—successfully reintegrate into society.

What do we expect to achieve?

1. The capacity of stakeholders to effectively treat/manage persons deprived of liberty with mental health problems is enhanced to provide improved treatment of prisoners with mental health issues.

2. The capacity, understanding and involvement of stakeholders in charge of alternative sanctions and measures is enhanced to ensure effectiveness and increased implementation of alternative sanctions and measures.

3. The capacity and partnership between stakeholders in charge of post release assistance is improved to provide better post-release care to former offenders.

 Funding: The project is co-financed by the European Union (89.8%) and the Council of Europe (10.2%) and implemented by the Council of Europe

 Duration of the project: From September 2025 to August 2028.