Investments in Human Capital

Hello,

My work focuses on the theme of «Investments in Human Capital». I hope it will spark genuine interest in you and inspire you to become part of the events I am about to describe.

This essay is dedicated to the newly launched probation institution in Russia.

The relevance of this topic stems fr om the government’s growing interest in developing this field, as well as the increased attention it has received from international experts, which was clearly demonstrated at the St. Petersburg International Legal Forum in 2023-2024.

The introduction of this institution opens up vast creative opportunities for Russian citizens, especially for the youth. For instance, the Federal Law No. 10-FZ dated February 6, 2023, “On Probation in the Russian Federation”, offers multiple opportunities for establishing and further development of:

·                   a large number of regulatory acts (experience in legislative work);

·                   government information system “Unified Register of Persons Subject to Probation” (experience in development, launching, and operating information systems);

·                   a volunteer movement (volunteers can be involved in restoring and strengthening family and social ties of probationers, which is undoubtedly a huge area for creativity);

·                   probation centers (mainly run by non-profit organizations and public associations, encouraging innovative and unconventional solutions as confirmed by

the reports on their creation and functioning in the mass media);

·                   a modern institution for providing assistance to persons in difficult life situations in the shortest possible time (probation services are now accessible via the Gosuslugi (Public Services) portal, and even the robot “Max” recognizes the term “probation”, eliminating the need for long queues at public offices, and this is just the beginning).

The continued development of these initiatives will provide those citizens who will implement them with a strong base of knowledge and skills, which will undoubtedly benefit future projects of a similar nature across the country.

It is particularly noteworthy that the initial draft of the above-mentioned Federal Law did not allocate additional financial resources from the federal or other budgets of the Russian Federation. Yet, we already see the probation institute thriving, thanks to the active involvement of engaged Russian citizens and effective decision-making by the state authorities.

Discussing the above-mentioned activities with international colleagues is highly relevant, as many neighboring countries have long-standing Probation Institutes and they could offer valuable insights and recommendations.

It is safe to say that probation is investments in human capital based on the following:

First, probation is aimed at helping individuals who have stumbled to gain skills and opportunities to become full members of society. This includes programs of rehabilitation, education, employment, professional retraining, legal documentation, and more.

Second, successful probation programs reduce recidivism. It saves government resources that would otherwise be spent on incarceration, new criminal investigations, and court proceedings. It would ultimately make society safer.

Third, when a person successfully completes probation and reintegrates into society, they can become taxpayers, contribute to the national economy, and, moreover, create and support their family (these are exactly the kinds of initiatives that talented young people should be encouraged to pursue and support);

Fourth, probation gives people a second chance, especially those who committed crimes due to socio-economic problems or lack of opportunity.

In conclusion, the effectiveness of probation depends directly on the quality of support provided to those in need. Without adequate funding, trained specialists, and effective individualized programs, even the best intentions can fail.

Therefore, the success of its implementation requires full engagement from all relevant authorities, organizations, ministries, and socially active Russian citizens, of course. Support from international partners – wh ere Probation Institutes have long been in place – can also be a vital resource.

We can draw a clear conclusion that discussing this topic within the framework of the open dialogue “The Future of the World. New Platform for Global Growth” would have a positive impact on the effective development of the Probation Institute in our country.

Best regards, Pavel Vadimovich Ivanov.