Ombudsman: There are systemic problems in the probation service

ArmInfo."In the field of probation, there are systemic problems that are caused by the ineffectiveness of institutional cooperation between various government agencies," said  Armenian ombudsman Arman Tatoyan in connection with the publication  of the report of the Office of the Human Rights Advocate, prepared  according to a special methodology that reflects the results of  visits all departments of the State Probation Service. The report  contains a comprehensive overview of the current state of the  probation service.

Tatoyan noted that the service is sometimes guided by the wrong  principles laid down in the functional area. All this complicates the  role of probation, the re-socialization of the individual and the  reintegration of society. Nevertheless, I emphasize the Minister of  Justice's commitment to changes in this area on the basis of our  report, "said Tatoyan.

Visits to the Office of the Human Rights Defender and the results of  their research show that the material and technical equipment for the  work of the probation service staff, as well as staff, especially  with the involvement of psychologists and other specialists, is  insufficient.  The Ombudsman also noted that the society has  developed stereotypes regarding those convicted of crimes that impede  the complete solution of problems. The report also addressed the  existing problems of criminal law. They relate to the supervision of  sentencing, non-custodial sentences, release on parole, failure to  perform certain functions, due to lack of legal grounds, as well as  review of the entire penitentiary system.  The report, prepared with  the support of the Embassy of the Netherlands in Armenia and Georgia,  presented proposals for solving problems.