Subject: Members request: Center of Probation, Ministry of Justice of Ukraine
From: Mariel Männiste - JUSTDIGI<[email-masked]>
To: "[email-masked]" <[email-masked]>
Date: Wed, 16 Jul 2025 10:10:05 +0000

Dear Sir/Madam,

We are writing in response to the questions you have submitted. Please find our answers below:
1. Has your probation organisation implemented additional paid services within your probation system?
Our approach is based on the principle that probation clients should have access to the same services as any other citizen, regardless of their criminal background.
There are various institutions in Estonia that provide different services, some of which are free of charge or available under specific conditions. For example:

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Debt counselling can be accessed free of charge under certain criteria.
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Legal counselling is also available under similar conditions.
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Employment support services aimed at reintegration into the labour market are provided free of charge.
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Addiction rehabilitation services, such as treatment in rehabilitation hospitals, can also be accessed without cost.

Within the probation service, we provide support and conduct social programmes. If a probation client is required to participate in a social programme that is not provided by the probation service, they are responsible for covering the cost themselves. This obligation is clearly explained to the client beforehand.
In cases where a client lacks the financial means to pay for a required service, they are advised to contact their local municipality for support, which may be granted depending on the circumstances.
One example of a service that clients must pay for themselves is the PEth test (a biomarker test for alcohol use). This is a voluntary obligation taken on by the client, and they are informed in advance that they must cover the cost. Before proceeding, we assess the client’s financial situation and obtain their consent.
Based on the above, the probation organisation itself does not implement additional paid services.
2. Does your probation organisation have dedicated units responsible for internal security?
No, the probation service in Estonia does not have dedicated internal security units. Probation is part of the Prison Service, which operates under the Ministry of Justice and Digital Affairs. Internal security matters are handled within the broader structure of the prison service.

Kind regards,

Mariel Männiste
Adviser
Ministry of Justice and Digital Affairs

[email-masked]
+372 5143171