In a continued effort to enhance the skills of prosecutors and investigators, GRC successfully conducted a two-day practical training on the implementation of the PEACE model of interviewing. Building on a previous session held in March 2024 for the Sumy Regional Prosecutor’s Office, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), and the National Police of Ukraine (NPU) in the Sumy region, this advanced workshop aimed to enhance the participants’ expertise and skills through practical exercises.
The training addressed common challenges faced during interviews and provided strategies for establishing and maintaining rapport with victims and witnesses, better identification and qualification of detention-related crimes including sexual and gender-based crimes and incorporating trauma-informed approaches to the interviewing of victims and witnesses. It included a comprehensive blend of theory and practice, culminating in simulated interviews based on fictional case scenarios.
Participants engaged in an in-depth review of interviewing techniques. Following the simulations, a detailed debriefing session was held to reflect on lessons learned and reinforce best practices.
Vitalii Dovhal, Head of the War Crime Department in Sumy Regional Prosecutor’s Office emphasised the importance of the event.
“The PEACE model training showcased a high level of professionalism and a deep understanding of the complexities involved in interviewing survivors of sexual violence during armed conflict. This modern approach to communication, focused on empathy and attentive listening, is crucial in handling such sensitive conversations. The session provided practical tools for conducting interviews that help minimize re-traumatization and uphold ethical standards.”
One of the participants shared his thoughts on the effectiveness of the training.
“Thanks to the PEACE model training, investigators and prosecutors have enhanced their skills to ensure a structured and consistent approach before, during, and after the procedural interview. The training created an environment close to real interview settings, allowing participants to practice practical skills, exchange experiences, and provide feedback to the organizers. The training was highly organized, and the material was presented in a way that was easily accessible to participants.”
Karine Ardault, Team Lead of the SGBV Mobile Justice Team emphasised importance of the training in the current context:
“ It is crucial that investigators and prosecutors are equipped with the right tools to handle complex and often traumatising cases, such as those involving sexual and gender-based violence. This training is part of our broader effort to ensure justice is delivered effectively and sensitively, ensuring that victims remain at the centre of all concerns during the investigation.”
This event underscores GRC’s commitment to strengthening the capacity of investigators and prosecutors in Ukraine to tackle complex crimes with sensitivity and precision.
GRC’s SGBV Mobile Justice Team is a part of the Atrocity Crimes Advisory Group (ACA). The ACA is a multilateral initiative established by the United States, the European Union and the United Kingdom to support and assist Ukrainian law enforcement and prosecutors in investigating and prosecuting international crimes committed during a full-scale war.
*This event was organised with the financial support of the European Union. Its contents are the sole responsibility of Global Rights Compliance and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.