RSCNPF Officers Undertake Regional Human Rights Training

The Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) recently participated in a comprehensive week-long training program designed to bolster human rights protection and elevate professional policing standards across the region. This initiative, spearheaded by the Attorney General’s Office and Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs, was conducted in collaboration with a consortium of international and regional organizations, including the Convention against Torture Initiative (CTI), the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) Caribbean Regional Office, and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). The program underscored the twin imperatives of upholding human rights while effectively addressing the evolving complexities of contemporary crime.

The training commenced on September 8th, 2025, with a two-day foundational workshop focusing on core human rights principles. Participants included members of the RSCNPF, the St. Kitts Bar Association, His Majesty’s Prison, senior officials from Dominica and Saint Lucia, and other key stakeholders within the justice system. The workshop delved into the intricacies of the UN human rights system, exploring its mechanisms, treaty body reporting procedures, and the specific obligations outlined within the Convention against Torture. This initial phase provided a robust theoretical framework for understanding and applying human rights principles within the context of law enforcement.

The program’s second phase, spanning from September 11th to 12th, shifted focus to advanced practical training specifically tailored for RSCNPF officers. Commissioner of Police James Sutton inaugurated this segment, emphasizing the training’s timeliness in light of the increasingly sophisticated nature of criminal activities and the corresponding need for enhanced investigative techniques. This practical component aimed to equip officers with the necessary skills to navigate the challenges of modern policing while remaining firmly grounded in human rights principles.

This advanced training delved into specialized modules focusing on crucial aspects of modern investigative practices. These included investigative interviewing techniques, the complexities of memory recall, and the psychological factors influencing witness testimony. The curriculum drew upon the expertise of internationally recognized specialists, including Psychologist William Weber Cecconello from CogJus, and Police Commissioner Fernando Guzzi of Santa Catarina, Brazil. Their contributions were further augmented by the expert insights of human rights officers from the CTI. This collaborative approach ensured a multi-faceted perspective on best practices in human rights-compliant investigative procedures.

The training program represents a significant contribution to the Federation’s broader justice reform agenda and reinforces its national commitment to collaborating with OECS partners and international bodies. By prioritizing the integration of human rights principles into law enforcement practices, the initiative seeks to bolster accountability and foster greater public trust in the police force. This commitment reflects a recognition that effective policing and respect for human rights are not mutually exclusive but, rather, mutually reinforcing elements of a just and secure society.

The collaborative nature of the training, involving regional and international partners, highlights the shared responsibility for upholding human rights within the Caribbean community. This joint effort underscores the importance of capacity building within law enforcement agencies, ensuring they are equipped to navigate the complex landscape of modern crime while upholding the fundamental rights of all individuals. The training serves as a model for strengthening regional cooperation in promoting human rights and fostering greater professionalism within law enforcement across the Caribbean.