An OSCE seminar dedicated to probation measures as an alternative to imprisonment was held in Ashgabat on May 7–8, 2026. Representatives of Turkmenistan’s law enforcement, legislative, and judicial bodies took part in the event. This was reported by AsmanNews.
The event was organized by the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat. Its purpose was to study international experience in reducing the prison population and developing alternative sentencing measures, including probation, parole, and rehabilitation programs.
Experts from Moldova presented practical approaches to the work of probation services and spoke about the evolution of punishment strategies. Issues related to the reintegration of former convicts into society were also discussed separately. Participants also examined the impact of alternative measures on reducing recidivism and easing pressure on the penitentiary system.
The seminar presented international standards of the UN and regional organizations in the field of non-custodial penalties, as well as approaches to their implementation at the national level.
William Leaf, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat, noted that in a number of countries there is a growing emphasis on rehabilitation and the prevention of repeat offenses.
The discussions involved 20 representatives from the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Prosecutor General’s Office, and other agencies.