Reintegration of former inmates in Romania

Being released from prison is often a destabilising experience for former inmates. They often face material hardship and social isolation, which hinders their successful reintegration into society. Most reoffending occurs within the first year after release.

In Romania, the CEB is working with EU, public and judicial authorities and NGOs on a pilot project to support inmates of the Timisoara penitentiary in rebuilding their lives. The CEB is providing technical assistance to establish a Reintegration Centre, funded by a €225 000 grant from the InvestEU Advisory Hub, an EU facility.

The Centre will constitute a one-stop shop offering comprehensive support services for inmates, such as employment assistance, psychological support, life skills coaching. It will also provide specialised training to practitioners providing these services, such as probation staff. By integrating these services under one roof and in a coordinated manner and by training social workers in delivering them to this very specific category of beneficiaries, the Centre will create a streamlined approach to reintegration, addressing the multiple complex needs of inmates as they transition back into society. The tailored support aims to increase their chances of successful reintegration into society, thereby improving public safety and reducing future incarceration costs.

iStock-1982544423 Reintegration of former inmates in Romania
© iStock / Worawith Ounpeng