In the framework of the joint European Union and Council of Europe program “Horizontal Facility for the Western Balkans and Türkiye” (Horizontal Facility III) as a co-operation initiative, on April 24-25, 2024, Tirana hosted the regional conference “Programs and paths that ensure the reintegration of violent extremist prisoners and marginalized prisoners at risk of radicalization in the Western Balkans” with the participation of delegations from the Council of Europe, the European Union, Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia.

Albania as a host country was represented by Mrs. Lejdi Dervishi Director of the Coordination Center for Countering Violent Extremism (CVE), also National Coordinator against violent extremism, who gave an introductory speech. Representatives from the General Directorate of Prisons, Probation Service, National Agency for Employment and Skills and CSOs attended the event.

The third phase of the program covers actions in Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia and Turkey, including the regional dimension.

The purpose of the conference was to increase cooperation in the Western Balkans for the management of violent extremism in prisons and the prevention of further radicalization upon release. In this context, the “Policy Guidelines” were presented, a document which aims to equip policymakers and senior officials in the Western Balkans with the knowledge and strategies to prevent and counter terrorism within the region. It places a significant emphasis on tertiary prevention strategies, aimed at curtailing violent recidivism among those convicted of violent extremist crimes and those deemed vulnerable or at risk of radicalization. Through this focused approach, the guideline aspires to promote a paradigm shift in managing violent extremism, transitioning from merely punitive measures to a more rehabilitative and reintegrative model that addresses the root causes and facilitates the seamless reintegration of offenders into society, thereby fostering a safer and more resilient community.

Regarding future activities in Albania, aiming development of preparation for release program for VEPs, vulnerable/marginalized prisoners at risk from radicalization, the following are planned:

– Training of prison, probation and social welfare professionals in application of the VEPs specific tools and pre-release programs;

– Piloting, evaluation and monitoring, towards ensuring sustainable utilization in practice in Albania;

– Assessment of the current practices and procedures of multi-institutional cooperation related to the release and reintegration of Violent extremist prisoners.

The conference was concluded, with the 3rd Steering Committee Meeting, which was also attended by the Head of the Council of Europe Office in Tirana, Mrs. Giulia Re. The meeting was moderated by Mr. Predrag Sofranac, P/CVE Regional Program manager.