Mendez Principles on Effective Interviewing for Investigations

Principles on Effective Interviewing for Investigations and Information Gathering (Mendez Principles)

Ample scientific evidence shows that traditional interrogations are often unreliable and abusive of human rights, particularly when they result in forced confessions and miscarriages of justice. Based on rigorous science and experience of criminal investigators, the new Principles on Effective Interviewing for Investigations and Information Gathering–also known as Méndez Principles - provide guidance and solutions to States on moving away from confession based criminal justice systems, thereby reducing the risks of coercion, torture and ill-treatment.

The Principles are designed to protect the fundamental rights of persons suspected of crime as well as of victims and witnesses. Guided by the pursuit of truth and the operationalisation of the presumption of innocence, they enable the gathering of more reliable and accurate information, and contribute to respect human rights in the administration of justice.

Importantly, the Principles strengthen the role of National Human Rights Institutions and National Preventive Mechanisms against Torture and (NPMs), by promoting independent oversight and monitoring with regards to interviewing, safeguards and associated police and justice related practices.

Download the Principles here

How did we do?

Conducting investigative interviews virtually

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