Human rights at the forefront  

In our conversation with Prof. Juan Méndez, a renowned human rights advocate and former UN Special Rapporteur on Torture, we explored the significance of the Méndez Principles. These guidelines underscore the prohibition of torture and coercion, advocating for interviewing methods that respect the dignity and rights of all individuals. Prof. Méndez’s insights shed light on the global impact of these principles and the necessity of aligning police work with international human rights standards. 

Global perspectives on Investigative Interviewing

Our episodes with Fanny Aboagye, Assistant Commissioner of the Ghana Police Force, and Gisle Kvanvig offered valuable perspectives on the international adoption of ethical interviewing practices. Aboagye discussed the launch of the UN Manual on Investigative Interviewing and its implications for policing in Africa. She emphasised the importance of management support and training in implementing these changes and highlighted the role of gender in non-confrontational interviewing styles. 

Gisle Kvanvig brought a unique viewpoint on the practical challenges and successes in adopting new interviewing methods and provided a realistic look at the global landscape of policing reforms. 

Psychological insights and communication  

Emily Alison, specialists in communication and ethical interviewing and Becky Milne – Professor of Forensic Psychology, shared their expertise on the psychological aspects of interviewing. Their focus on building rapport and understanding the psychological dynamics at play during interviews was particularly enlightening. Emily Alison insights emphasised the need for empathy and effective communication in gathering reliable information. Prof. Becky Milne also highlighted the importance of context and detailed questioning to elicit more accurate responses from interviewees. 

Technological integration in policing  

Throughout the season, a key highlight was the integration of technology in modern policing. The discussions underscored how advancements in recording technology, such as digital and mobile solutions, are revolutionising evidence collection. These innovations not only enhance the accuracy and reliability of evidence but also streamline processes, making law enforcement more efficient and cost-effective. 

Looking Ahead  

As we conclude the first season of “Beyond a Reasonable Doubt,” we are inspired by the commitment of our guests to advance ethical, effective, and humane policing practices. Their collective insights provide a roadmap for law enforcement agencies worldwide to adopt more just and transparent methods. 

We look forward to continuing this conversation in future seasons, exploring new developments and sharing more success stories from the field. Stay tuned for more discussions as we strive to transform investigative practices for the better. 

Training for a new era 

One of the most compelling aspects of our conversation was Fanny’s emphasis on training and cultural change within police forces. She highlighted how Ghana is embracing these new methods as part of its vision to achieve world-class policing standards. This involves a deep-rooted shift in training curricula and operational practices to foster a culture that upholds dignity and human rights at every level.

The shift towards female leadership 

The inclusion and ascension of women in the police force are not just about achieving gender parity but also about enhancing the effectiveness and ethical standards of policing. In Ghana, the proportion of women in the police force has seen a significant rise, with about 27% of officers being women, and even more heartening is the 15-17% representation in senior roles. This marked increase in female presence across all levels, particularly in operational and field roles, demonstrates a transformative shift in the traditionally male-dominated sphere of policing. 

Fanny Aboagye’s narrative shines a light on the profound changes happening within the Ghanaian police force. Previously, senior female officers were primarily stationed at headquarters, somewhat removed from frontline duties. However, recent policies have propelled them into more active roles in the field, challenging and reshaping the operational dynamics of policing. This strategic inclusion allows women to prove their mettle alongside their male counterparts, breaking down long-standing stereotypes and fostering a more inclusive environment. 

This evolution in the workforce is crucial for several reasons. First, it promotes a more balanced approach to policing, especially in situations where sensitivity and empathic communication are required. Research and experiences from various countries, including Norway, suggest that women often excel in roles that require non-confrontational and communicative approaches, skills that are vital in investigative interviewing. These skills not only lead to better outcomes in individual cases but also help in transforming the “macho” image of policing into one that is more inclusive and just. 

Broadening the impact

Fanny Aboagye also pointed out the broader implications of these changes, noting the importance of such reforms in other African countries and beyond. Her work with the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre exemplifies how shared knowledge and collaborative training efforts can elevate policing standards across regions. 

The global implications of ethical interviewing 

This episode not only sheds light on the transformative efforts in policing but also reinforces the belief that ethical interviewing is fundamental to justice and community trust. As law enforcement agencies worldwide navigate these changes, leaders like Fanny Aboagye are instrumental in guiding them towards practices that respect human rights and enhance the effectiveness of the criminal justice system. 

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how ethical interviewing is reshaping the landscape of international law enforcement, driven by dedicated professionals committed to reform and integrity. 

“We needed a set of guidelines, and this set is based on 40 years of experience from researchers who have studied how police work can comply with human rights standards, guarantee all the safeguards that suspects should have in a democratic police environment, and at the same time provide an affirmative vehicle for the police to do their work more effectively than relying on coercion, which has been proven to be counterproductive.” 

Setting a new global standard for police interviewing techniques 

The manual establishes a comprehensive framework for non-coercive interviewing techniques that respect human rights and uphold the principles of justice. Its publication is particularly crucial for parts of the world where coercive interrogation practices have still been the norm. By promoting ethical interviewing standards, the manual not only aims to enhance the effectiveness of criminal investigations but also ensures that these practices are grounded in respect for human dignity and the avoidance of any form of ill-treatment or torture.