SPECIFIC QUESTIONS FOR INTERROGATING A MINOR

Abstract

The article examines certain theoretical and practical aspects of the interrogation of minors in criminal proceedings, taking into account their age, psychological and procedural characteristics. The author analyzes modern approaches to en- suring effective and at the same time humane obtaining of evidentiary information from a child acting as a witness or victim.Particular attention is paid to the implementation in Ukraine of the “Green Room” methodology as a special environ- ment for the interrogation of children, which should minimize psychological trauma and ensure the reliability of testimony.The standards for arranging such premises, the procedure for the participation of a psychologist and a specialist in working with children, as well as technical requirements for video recording are disclosed. Additionally, the “Barnahus” model, which is being introduced into Ukrainian practice with the support of international partners, is considered. This model provides for an interdisciplinary approach: uniting investigators, psychologists, doctors, social workers and prosecutors in one place for comprehensive work with a child who has suffered from a crime.Based on the analysis of the norms of the Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine, international acts (the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Beijing Rules, the Council of Europe Convention on the Protection of Children against Sexual Abuse) and decisions of the Supreme Court, the author identifies problems of law enforcement during the interrogation of minors. In particular, it is about the lack of mandatory use of special techniques, insufficient level of training of investigators, as well as the practice of repeated interrogation without good grounds. The article also considers positive examples of the use of structured interviews, the role of emotional contact, visual materials and interviewing in an adapted environment. It is proposed to expand the practice of “Green Rooms” and integrate elements of the “Barnahus” model.