Chiefs, church leaders, and respected community representatives from across Malampa Province gathered in Lakatoro last week for the Community Justice Supervisor Forum 2025, held under the theme “Strengthening Community-Based Rehabilitation and Human Rights in Vanuatu.”

From the press release it states that the three-day forum (29 September – 01 October) was organised by the Probation Service Unit of the Department of Correctional Services, in partnership with the Human Rights and Social Development Unit (SPC). It provided essential training and induction for Community Justice Supervisors (CJS) — volunteers who monitor and guide offenders serving community-based sentences such as parole, supervision, and community work.

This is the fifth time Malampa Province has hosted the forum since 2016, reflecting its ongoing leadership in advancing community justice. With 52 new community-based offenders currently serving sentences across Malekula, Ambrym, and Paama, the Department emphasised that strengthening the capacity of supervisors is key to reducing reoffending, promoting human rights, and building safer, more resilient communities.

“Community Justice Supervisors are the eyes and ears of Corrections in our villages. By building their capacity, we are strengthening public safety, community resilience, and the rehabilitation of offenders,” said a Probation Service spokesperson.

The program also included sessions on the Rod Blong Jastis Map, offender sentence conditions, and the constitutional importance of human rights. By the end of the forum, participants returned to their communities better equipped to support offender reintegration, reconciliation with victims, and long-term community harmony.

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