On November 5th, a four day training course organized by the Ministry of Internal Affairs with the support of UNICEF for instructors on a child-friendly approach during the investigation crimes against minors or involving minor witnesses was ended.

Internal Affairs investigators of Ashgabat and velayats, teachers of the Institute of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Department of Psychology of the Makhtumkuli State University participated to the training which was held at the UN Office.

Taking in the children's interests participants learned the methodology and tools for conducting assessments, gathering information and identifying needs. The classes included behavioural analysis, aspects of psychological knowledge in the investigation of crimes, issues of interagency cooperation in response to crimes against minors with the involvement of subject matter experts and psychologist.

The training highlighted the importance of "friendly justice towards child" approach that guarantees respect and effective care of all children rights, taking into consideration the degree of maturity and the circumstances of the case. This approach is necessary because children are more vulnerable, require special attention and should feel safe during the interview.

The training participants also discussed the possibility of introducing the training course as training modules to improve the skills of participants in the process of investigating crimes against minors, or with the participation of juvenile witnesses, in accordance with the National Plan of Action for the realization of children's rights for 2023-2028.