PROF. DOBRINKA CHANKOVA, PhD WITH ACADEMIC AWARD FROM THE GLOBAL ACADEMY FOR TRAINING AND RESEARCH
Photo: GATR–GCBSS-Kuala Lumpur
Prof. Dobrinka Chankova, PhD – lecturer at the Department of Law at Varna Free University, was awarded the Academic Award of the Global Academy for Training and Research during the 17th Global Conference on Business and Social Sciences, which was held in Indonesia. Prof. Chankova was honoured for her active research and teaching activities. She also received the “Best Presenter” award for her presentation on the topic of “Does the Application of the Mendez Principles for Effective Interviewing in Investigations and Information Collection Serve Victims of Crime?” Her participation was made possible thanks to a grant provided by the COST Action “Creating Networks for the Application of the Principles for Effective Interviewing in Investigations”.
The Mendez Principles are an innovative document adopted under the auspices of the UN in 2021, which proposes new standards for conducting investigations. They aim to replace coercive interrogation methods with techniques based on respect for human rights, scientific approaches and effectiveness. Prof. Chankova emphasises their importance and their application not only to perpetrators, but also to the victims of crimes.
Of particular interest were the results of the opening of the Mendez Centres of excellence in Dublin and Oslo, the holding of training schools for police officers, the published translations in various languages, webinars, podcasts and other initiatives to popularise the Principles. Her report was highly appreciated by more than 150 participants from 39 countries, including scholars from various academic fields – law, education, psychology, political science and others.
Prof. Dobrinka Chankova, PhD is an established lecturer and leading researcher in the field of criminal and restorative justice, as well as in mediation. She is the author of over a hundred scientific papers and is an active participant in legislative and academic initiatives in Bulgaria and Europe. Her scientific and public contribution is related to the introduction of innovations in investigations and the expansion of good practices in the field of justice.