The Correctional Research Symposium (CRS) is a biennial event organized jointly by the International Corrections & Prisons Association (ICPA) and the European Organization of Prison and Correctional Services (EuroPris). The 3^rd International Research Symposium was held at Holiday, Portugal in Porto from 27^th-30^th, March, 2023 hosted by the General Directorate of Reintegration and Prisons.

The symposium brought togetherover 200 delegates from more than 40 countries to discuss the theme “Rehabilitating Reintegration: Research and Reflections on What Works”.

The symposium showcased best practices in rehabilitation, focusing mainly on vulnerable groups. It also highlighted innovative approaches to reintegration practices and the importance of partnerships in supporting reintegration efforts. The symposium was a platform for networking and collaboration, enabling participants to exchange ideas, build relationships, and establish partnerships.  

Correctional professionals who attended CRS spoke about the benefits of doing research and evidence-based practices in their field. The Uganda Prisons Service was represented by Ms. Dorothy Apiimo, Principal Research Officer and Ms. Dorine Akello, Principal Officer I, Research.

Corrections is not only about the time spent in prison. Since most of the people that we incarcerate are released and returned back to their communities at some point, a significant task of criminal justice agencies is also to focus on this eventual ‘return’. From both a decency and a public safety perspective, it is pivotal that prisons and probation do all they can to assist in reintegration. But what constitutes good or effective reintegration? What does a ‘successful’ transition from custody to the community look and feel like? What can we learn from research and practice in this regard? The symposium welcomed both evidence-based and practice-informed discussions of how meaningful re/integration can be achieved.

The participation of delegates from diverse geographical, cultural, and professional backgrounds enhanced the symposium's value. The insights and best practices shared will enable correctional professionals to adopt new approaches and techniques that will lead to more effective rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders.