Komi's pre-release job program cuts crime and boosts ex-inmate employment
A pre-release employment program in the Republic of Komi has helped dozens of former inmates find work after leaving prison. In 2026, specialists from the regional employment centre held 19 meetings with 150 inmates preparing for release, aiming to ease their return to society. The initiative is part of broader efforts to reduce reoffending and improve job prospects for ex-prisoners. The meetings took place both in person and online at correctional facilities and employment centre branches. They included individual and group counselling, as well as job fairs where employers could connect directly with soon-to-be-released inmates. The program operates under Russia’s federal probation law, with cooperation between the Federal Penitentiary Service and the regional Ministry of Labour, Employment, and Social Protection.
By the end of 2026, 27 participants had secured jobs through the scheme—meaning one in every two who sought help from the employment centre found work. The employment rate for these applicants rose 1.4 times compared to the previous year. Officials also noted a 19% drop in recorded crime across the region, attributing part of the decline to the program’s focus on teaching effective job market behaviour. The project forms part of a wider federal effort to modernise Komi’s employment services under the national *Human Resources* initiative. Similar sessions are held multiple times a year in every correctional facility across the republic, ensuring inmates receive consistent support before release.
The program’s results suggest a direct link between employment support and lower reoffending rates. With 27 former inmates now in stable jobs, authorities plan to continue expanding the initiative. The regional employment centre will keep working with correctional facilities to refine the pre-release process.
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