UNDP: Vietnam advances in applying the Méndez Principles, strengthening the rule of law
WVR -The Méndez Principles are regarded as a scientifically-based, non-coercive investigative interviewing method that enhances the effectiveness of information gathering while ensuring human rights and the dignity of each individual. Vietnam's organization of training and development of a core group of trainers on these principles is seen by UNDP as a significant step in strengthening the rule of law.
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| The Ministry of Public Security, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Vietnam, organized the “Core Trainer Training Program – Guidelines for Implementing the Méndez Principles in Vietnam”. (Photo: Thanh Long) |
From September 22 to 24, the Ministry of Public Security, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Vietnam, organized the “Core Trainer Training Program – Guidelines for Implementing the Méndez Principles in Vietnam”. This program aims to equip trainers with the necessary knowledge, skills, and methods to effectively implement the Méndez Principles in interrogation and investigative interviewing activities.
The training program focuses on providing knowledge, skills, and practical methods regarding the Méndez Principles in interrogation and investigative interviewing, while also aiming to build a core group of trainers capable of further disseminating this content in practice.
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| Ms. Francesca Nardini, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP in Vietnam, answers questions from The World and Vietnam Report. (Photo: Thanh Long) |
In an interview with The World & Vietnam Report, Ms. Francesca Nardini, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP in Vietnam, stressed that the Méndez Principles and ensuring human rights are closely related and inseparable.
According to Ms. Francesca Nardini, the Méndez Principles are a tool and a set of guidelines built on internationally tested practices in many countries, based on scientifically and practically sound investigative methods.
The application of these principles not only helps investigators gather information reliably, thereby contributing to strengthening the rule of law and enhancing the credibility of judicial outcomes, but also ensures respect for human rights and the dignity of each individual.
Ms. Francesca Nardini highly appreciates Vietnam's efforts in implementing this method domestically, considering it an important step in the process of strengthening the rule of law in Vietnam.
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| Ms. Francesca Nardini, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP in Vietnam, speaks at the opening of the program. (Photo: Thanh Long) |
With its expertise in the field of rule of law and governance, UNDP can share experiences from its network operating in over 170 countries and territories, while supporting Vietnam in selecting and adapting practices suitable for domestic conditions. According to her, one of the important aspects is supporting Vietnam in enhancing capacity and gradually institutionalizing this mechanism.
Additionally, UNDP can play a supportive role for the Government of Vietnam in fulfilling international commitments on human rights. Ms. Francesca Nardini noted that Vietnam will soon conduct its second review of the Convention Against Torture, and UNDP is ready to accompany and support the Government in this process by sharing international experiences and practices.
The training content covers an introduction to the Méndez Principles, their objectives, scope, target audience, and six core principles; assessing their alignment with Vietnam's obligations under the United Nations Convention Against Torture (UNCAT) and Vietnamese law; and the scientific, legal, and ethical basis for effective, non-coercive interrogation.
The program also delves into the interrogation process, questioning techniques, active listening skills, information evaluation and analysis; methods for interviewing vulnerable groups, with a focus on child-friendly justice, gender sensitivity, and a victim-centered approach. Additionally, participants learn about implementation responsibilities, record-keeping, monitoring, complaints, remedies, and compensation.
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| Participants present at the training session. (Photo: Thanh Long) |
