Social Work in the Penitentiary System to Be Developed Jointly by the CCES of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the NAPSW

Astana, August 26, 2025 – The Committee of the Criminal-Executive System (CCES) of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the National Alliance of Professional Social Workers (NAPSW), a republican public association, have signed a memorandum of cooperation.

The document aims to develop and strengthen the institution of professional social work within the criminal-executive system and outlines joint activities in the following key areas:

• Psychological and social support for inmates – including counseling, trauma work, strengthening family ties, assistance with resocialization, and post-penitentiary support;

• Educational programs – training for CCES staff on social work and case management, development of specialized training courses and materials;

• Regulatory and legal initiatives – drafting proposals for the introduction of the “social worker” position in CCES institutions, development of job descriptions and interaction protocols, and the formation of a professional standard;

• Work with vulnerable groups – development of support programs for minors, women with children, and persons with disabilities in places of detention;

• Social reintegration – mentorship, assistance with employment, and access to social services after release.

The cooperation between the CCES and the National Alliance of Professional Social Workers is aimed at implementing a human rights–based approach in social work within the penitentiary system. This approach emphasizes respect for human dignity, the protection of human rights, and the creation of humane conditions for inmates.

Such a model will help strengthen the resocialization system, reduce the risk of reoffending, and promote more successful reintegration of former inmates into society.

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/ps/press/news/details/1060306?lang=kk