“I'd rather be called naive than tolerant of injustice" - Juan Méndez in conversation with Ivar Fahsing

Summary

Prof. Juan Méndez discusses the launch of the UN Manual on Investigative Interviewing for Criminal Investigations, which aligns police interviewing techniques with human rights standards. The manual aims to make police work more effective and compliant with international law, particularly the prohibition of torture and coercion. The conversation explores the importance of the Méndez principles in the creation of the manual and the need for a shift in police culture. The guests also discuss the power of empathy and effective communication in gathering information and the role of the Fruit of the Poisonous Tree doctrine in preventing torture. The conversation highlights the importance of ethical interviewing practices in the criminal justice system.

Takeaways

1. The UN Manual on Investigative Interviewing for Criminal Investigations aligns police interviewing techniques with human rights standards.

1. The manual aims to make police work more effective and compliant with international law, particularly the prohibition of torture and coercion.

1. The Méndez principles played a crucial role in the creation of the manual and provide a policy document for national-level implementation.

1. Empathy and effective communication are essential in gathering accurate and reliable information during interviews.

1. The Fruit of the Poisonous Tree doctrine puts pressure on the police to obtain evidence legally and prevents the use of evidence obtained through illegal means.

1. Ethical interviewing practices are crucial in building trust and confidence in the criminal justice system.