An inquiry circulated in September 1984 produced responses in January 1985 from 13 of the member nations of the Council of Europe. The results showed responsiveness to a 1976 resolution: Resolution (76) 10 on Alternative Penal Measures to Imprisonment. Alternatives such as fines, suspended sentences, and probation have been in use for some time. More recent practices included community service and community work. Not all of the new alternatives are always used to replace imprisonment, but they often do. The available evaluations indicate that noncustodial sentences are more effective than imprisonment in reducing recidivism. However, no studies exist that would support a recommendation of certain alternatives in preference to others. Few evaluation studies have focused on the costs, feasibility, and administration of alternatives. Studies on recidivism and guidelines for noncustodial sanctions are needed. Chart, footnotes, and statement adopted at the Seventh Conference of Directors of Prison Administrations.