Following two rounds of training sessions held on 4–11 February 2025, 56 counsellors from all probation offices across the Republic of Moldova strengthened their capacities to conduct structured and evidence-based assessment of offenders’ risks and needs.

During the three-day interactive sessions, through case studies and simulations probation counsellors enhanced their skills in identifying criminogenic risk factors (antisocial behaviour, substance abuse, mental health issues etc.)  and specific needs (education, employment, family relationships and other) for more accurate and responsive decision-making in their rehabilitation and reintegration interventions, in view of reducing the likelihood of reoffending.

The sessions represent a consolidation exercise, following the piloting and validation of a new risk and needs assessment tool in 12 probation offices of the Republic of Moldova, for a uniform and structured management of the risks and needs of offenders system-wide. The sessions were facilitated by Council of Europe consultants and organised under the auspices of the Project “Further strengthening the prison and probation systems, the provision of health care, and the treatment of patients in closed institutions in the Republic of Moldova”, financed through the Council of Europe Action Plan for the Republic of Moldova (2025-2028).