Photo of all the guests at season 1 of our podcast "Beyond Reasonable Doubt".

Reflecting on Season 1 of “Beyond a Reasonable Doubt”  

Looking back: “Beyond a Reasonable Doubt”

Listen

As we wrap up the first season of our podcast “Beyond a Reasonable Doubt”, it’s a great moment to reflect on the insights shared by our guests around investigative interviewing. Our podcast aimed to look into the complexities of investigative interviewing and the broader implications for law enforcement practices globally. Through engaging conversations, we explored themes of ethical interviewing, human rights, and the transformative power of technology in policing. 

Exploring ethical interviewing techniques  

One of the recurring themes this season was the shift towards ethical interviewing techniques. Dr. Ivar Fahsing and Dr. Asbjørn Rachlew, pioneers in this field from Norway, kicked off our series by discussing the evolution of investigative interviewing in their country. They highlighted the importance of non-coercive methods and the critical role these techniques play in ensuring justice and avoiding miscarriages of justice. 

Fanny Aboagye

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  

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. 

Related products