Committed to human rights and torture prevention in Nepal

The Danish Police played a major role in the project.

Supported by the Institute, 57 Nepalese law enforcement institutions are using human rights to address problems that led to to improper use of force.

Fifty-seven Nepalese police stations are working hard to prevent torture and other improper use of force. Their commitment is the result of a three-year project led by the Institute that has helped the 57 officers identify and address the root causes of torture. By coaching their officers to develop their skills and knowledge pertaining to human rights, they have developed projects that are, today, helping to reduce torture and inhumane treatment at their stations.

More suspects treated with dignity

Root causes of inhumane treatment identified at the police stations dealing with investigative interviews include lack of systematic planning and of psychological competencies, as well as absence of video cameras, both in custody and interrogation rooms, to record interviews with suspects. In order to address this, 154 investigative officers have now received training in the PEACE model for investigative interviewing, which teaches them how to treat suspects with dignity. Inspired by the PEACE model, many of the stations have established dedicated interrogation rooms equipped with recording cameras to oversee interviews and have increased their awareness of human rights.

Enhanced investigation

A survey of one of the police stations shows that prior to the project most suspects report having felt nervous and unwilling to share information. Today nearly 95% of them experience that their rights are respected and are willing to share information. The increased number of suspects willing to share information has improved the investigation process and helped the police solve cases. This means that, ultimately, the officers’ motivation for protecting human rights has increased.

VIDEO: Policing With A Human Face From Police Force To Police Service