Law enforcement agencies the world over are working to modernize their approach to investigations, and the Méndez Principles on Effective Interviewing for Investigations and Information Gathering can help. They offer a clear and ethical framework for conducting interviews. The mission is to outline practices that are both effective and rights-based. As a result, these international guidelines emphasize non-coercive, scientifically-sound, and transparent methods for gathering information. All of this aligns with iRecord’s mission to support justice through reliable digital recording solutions. We’re proud to say that our work and technology helps promote the Méndez Principles for agencies around the world!
How Do the Méndez Principles Work?
Since the launch of the Méndez Principles in May of 2021, their global impact continues to grow. Developed through a collaborative, interdisciplinary effort, these principles were created in response to concerns about torture and ill-treatment during interrogations. They have since been embraced by a wide range of stakeholders—from UN bodies and national courts to police associations and advocacy groups—as a foundational framework for ethical and reliable interviewing practices.
At the heart of the Méndez Principles is a commitment to non-coercive, rapport-based interviewing. From there, they also promote essential legal safeguards such as access to legal counsel and protections against self-incrimination. This integrated approach not only prevents abuse but also enhances the accuracy of investigations.
The principles emphasize audio-visual recording too. These protect the rights of all involved. For agencies that have yet to make the switch to recording each and every instance of an investigative interview, adopting the Méndez Principles is a great time to make the upgrade for your agency’s interview evidence process!
Why iRecord is at the Forefront
At iRecord and along with our parent company WSI Technologies, we are proud to stand at the intersection of innovation and integrity in the criminal justice space. The work of the Méndez Principles Steering Committee underscores the importance of ethical standards in all facets of justice, and this is in keeping with what our team deeply values and actively supports.
We are especially honored to have Mark Fallon, a distinguished member of the Méndez Principles Steering Committee, serving as a Strategic Advisor to iRecord. Mark’s expertise and principled leadership continue to guide our mission to deliver reliable, transparent, and human-centered recording solutions. His involvement strengthens our commitment to advancing technologies that not only support law enforcement but also uphold the highest standards of justice and accountability.
Stay Compliant and Enhance Your Interrogation Process
Staying compliant with evolving international standards on ethical interviewing isn’t just a legal obligation—it’s a strategic investment in the credibility of your agency and the strength of your investigations. The Méndez Principles call for a shift toward non-coercive, rights-based practices that emphasize accuracy, transparency, and human dignity. It’s something we can all get behind.
iRecord aligns with this mission by offering intuitive, high-quality digital recording solutions that support legal safeguards. By integrating iRecord’s secure audio-visual systems into your interview rooms, agencies can document interactions clearly, reduce disputes over what was said or how evidence was gathered, and demonstrate adherence to both national regulations and global human rights frameworks like the Méndez Principles.
Whether you’re aiming to improve internal accountability, safeguard interviewee rights, or ensure the admissibility of evidence, iRecord empowers your team to enhance investigative integrity and stay ahead of compliance standards. To learn more about our solutions, please don’t hesitate to contact our team. We partner with agencies at every stage of their interview room process, whether you’re building a space from the ground up or simply upgrading your existing room. Let us know how we can help you develop a recording solution that enhances the way you work!