The Council of Europe continues to support the penitentiary institutions in North Macedonia by improving staff capacities related to management of violent and extremist prisoners (VEPs), and those vulnerable to radicalisation. In this context, a two-day advanced training session for 13 prison staff, members of multidisciplinary teams from three prison establishments in Idrizovo, Shtip and Kumanovo, took place on 10-11 June 2024 in Dojran.

The training focused on the application of the VEP-specific screening, risk and needs assessment tools, rehabilitation programme and newly developed pre-release programme for VEPs. The participants enhanced their level of knowledge, self-confidence, and skills through presentations, practical exercises and role plays.

The training also contributed to a better understanding of radicalisation prevention by the participants and further strengthened their skills in VEPs management and treatment planning. Challenges that they may encounter during the implementation of the VEP-specific tools and programmes, such as inmates’ resistance and lack of motivation, were also discussed.

Equipped with new skills and practical knowledge, the participants in their role as future facilitators will now test the tools and programmes in prison environment during a piloting phase.

The training, delivered by an international consultant, was organised under the 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, co-financed by EU and the Council of Europe and implemented by the latter.