COST Conference Panel on Mendez Principles in Investigative Interviewing Held at the UNSA Faculty of Criminalistics, Criminology and Security Studies
On 3 October 2025 within the International Scientific Conference “21st Days of Criminalistics - CFS 25,” at the University of Sarajevo - Faculty of Criminalistics, Criminology and Security Studies, a COST conference panel “Mendez Principles in Investigative Interviewing” was held. This panel is part of the activities within the EU COST action CA22128: “Establishing Networks to Implement the Principles of Effective Interviewing for Investigations” better known as #ImpleMendez. The panel brought together eminent experts from 12 countries, including Bosnia and Herzegovina, the United Kingdom, Turkey, Croatia, Slovenia, Serbia, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Bulgaria, Kosovo, Greece and Albania, with the aim of exchanging experiences and promoting an ethical, non-coercive and investigative approach to interviewing, which is in line with the highest human rights standards. The Mendez Principles, as a globally recognized framework, represent a clear and practical path towards establishing a balance between respect for human rights and the interests of public safety. The application of these principles enables a move away from outdated and counterproductive practices, and a transition to a modern, scientifically based approach, which is based on collecting accurate information, building trust and transparency of investigative processes. On behalf of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Sarajevo Canton, Minister Admir Katica, in his opening remarks, expressed full support for the implementation of the Méndez Principles, emphasizing the importance of continuous activities that contribute to strengthening institutional capacities, professional education of officials and improving ethical standards in their conduct. By holding this panel, the Faculty of Criminal Justice, Criminology and Security Studies once again confirmed its commitment to the development of modern, scientifically based approaches in research and practice, and to actively contributing to the building of a more just and humane criminal justice system in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
