The general objective of this project was to improve the process of resocialization of young convicts (age 15 - 21) in correctional institutions and penal facilities in Europe through the Erasmus+ programme. The specific objectives were: - To promote and recognise Erasmus+ and ESC programmes as a tool for improving educational programs in the direction of resocialization of young offenders - To promote non-formal education in organizations and institutions that work with young offenders - To offer the Erasmus+ and ESC Program as a tool for penal and post-penal support of young offenders - To build capacity of institutions working with young offenders through networking and recognition of good practices - To establish Erasmus+ network of institutions working with young offenders on European level.
We applied for this project to better understand how the Erasmus+ programme is used by correctional institutions in the rehabilitation and resocialisation of young offenders. Although Erasmus+ has strong potential to support inclusion, learning, and personal development, its application in correctional and post-correctional settings remains limited, particularly for young offenders aged 15–21. The project addressed the need to examine how many young offenders benefit from Erasmus+ opportunities, how institutions engage with the programme, and which barriers restrict wider participation. Institutions and NGOs working with young offenders require continuous professional development, access to good practices, and practical tools to apply non-formal education effectively. Through the project, we assessed the awareness and capacity of institutions to use Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps as tools for rehabilitation and resocialisation, while identifying practical ways to involve young offenders more actively. By generating new evidence and strengthening cooperation between institutions and NGOs, the project supported a more inclusive and strategic use of Erasmus+ in the future.