Fostering Rehabilitation Through Collaboration: UNODC and PP&PS

November 14, 2024 – Lahore

In an inspiring step towards a collaborative future, a meeting was held today between the Directorate General of Punjab Probation and Parole Service (PP&PS) and representatives from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). 

This pivotal gathering took place in the Committee Room of the Directorate General in Lahore, where committed minds converged to advance the efficacy of Pakistan's criminal justice system, especially through probation and parole reforms.

The UNODC delegation included Mr. Arslan Malik, Advisor for Criminal Justice and Rule of Law, and Mr. Arslan Masood, Program Manager for Prosecution and Judiciary, who shared insights into the transformative projects spearheaded by UNODC worldwide. Muhammad Shahid Iqbal, Director General of PP&PS, chaired the meeting with steadfast dedication, supported by a prominent team of academicians, comprising Prof. Dr. Amina Muazzam, Head of the Psychology Department at Lahore College for Women University (LCWU); Prof. Dr. Rubeena Zakir, Director of the Institute of Social and Cultural Studies (ISCS) at the University of the Punjab; and Prof. Dr. Syeda Salma Hasan, Head of the Psychology Department at Government College University (GCU), Lahore.

Also in attendance were various officials of the PP&PS, including Director Mr. Arif Umar Aziz, Assistant Director Miss Ayesha Allah Ditta, Parole Officers Mr. Muhammad Atif Ali and Mr. Naeem Ghafoor, Voluntary Probation Officer Ms. Sehar Farooq, and Probation Officer Ms. Saira Fatima. A group of eager female interns enriched the assembly, reflecting the department’s emphasis on grooming the next generation of social justice advocates.

Strengthening Community and Criminal Justice

The Director General commenced with an overview of the PP&PS, its pivotal role within the criminal justice system, and the recent strategic advances it has made. Highlighting key initiatives, he remarked, "At Punjab Probation and Parole Service, our mission goes beyond punishment; we believe in transforming lives. From community service integration to instructional guides, every stride we make aims to pave a brighter path for reintegration.”

Mr. Malik of UNODC commended the progress achieved by PP&PS, noting that “the department has made laudable advancements in its structural and procedural frameworks. There is a clear momentum here, and we are honored to be part of this journey.” He acknowledged the recent milestone of integrating community service within the department's legal framework and appreciated the development of a comprehensive Instruction Manual and Correctional Guide, which will aid officers in executing their roles with consistency and compassion.

Bridging Partnerships for Sustainable Progress

The Punjab Probation and Parole Service proposed three promising initiatives to the UNODC representatives: an International Conference on Criminal Justice, a Capacity-Building Program for PP&PS Officers, and a Mega Initiative for the skill enhancement of probationers. In response, Mr. Masood assured the department of UNODC’s willingness to actively consider these proposals, emphasizing, "Our ongoing work is deeply committed to capacity building, provision of essential technology, and supporting legislative improvements."

The three proposed projects resonated with UNODC’s current focus areas, and both parties expressed mutual determination to pursue a long-term partnership. Prof. Dr. Syeda Salma Hasan added, "This meeting reaffirms that impactful social change requires collaborative effort, where academia, governance, and international organizations each play a defining role. Together, we can reshape rehabilitation as a core tenet of justice."

Looking Ahead: A Commitment to Capacity and Community

In particular, the proposal for capacity-building resonated deeply, as probation and parole officers in Punjab continue to face the dynamic challenges of rehabilitation and reformation. Prof. Dr. Amina Muazzam underscored, “The call for capacity-building and skill development is timely. Empowering our officers and probationers alike will create ripples of change across communities, ensuring that every effort of rehabilitation strengthens the social fabric.”

Symbolic Closing and Future Prospects

The meeting concluded with a symbolic exchange of shields and heartfelt words of gratitude. In a closing note, the Director General remarked, "We are deeply grateful for UNODC’s support and encouragement. Together, we have planted seeds of change today that will nurture a more resilient, empathetic society tomorrow."

The formalities concluded with a group photo, capturing the collective resolve and unity of all attendees. This meeting signifies not only the progress of the Punjab Probation and Parole Service but also the unwavering potential of partnerships that bridge local commitment with global vision for criminal justice transformation.