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Paris, June 24 (OLA NEWS) – French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin today launched the “États généraux de l’insertion et de la probation”, a national consultation aiming to overhaul the country’s approach to prisoner reintegration and probation.
The initiative, announced at the Chancellery in Paris, brings together judicial actors, lawmakers, unions, associations, and researchers to shape policy recommendations by year’s end. Darmanin reaffirmed his commitment to transforming the penal system by rethinking the meaning and effectiveness of sentences. He emphasized the pivotal role of the Prison Service for Integration and Probation (SPIP) and announced plans to double the number of semi-liberty places by 2027, with 3,000 new spots expected by the end of this year to support reintegration and reduce recidivism.
A key focus of the États généraux is to create an open dialogue on reintegration and probation, including a dedicated section for juvenile offenders. Darmanin pledged that future budget increases would prioritize youth justice. He also outlined plans for a new high-security prison, the creation of a penitentiary police force, and a strengthened intelligence service. These reforms aim to restore dignity to the penal system and provide reintegration agents with the resources and recognition they need. The consultation process will continue through autumn, with concrete proposals expected to reshape France’s approach to criminal justice and social reintegration.
Reporting and pictures by Arnaud Vilette, Laura L’helgoualch, OLA NEWS Paris; editing by Alexandre Minguez
