FULL-PROOF’s Cross-Border Workshop for LEAs in Bratislava
The first Cross-Border Workshop (CBW) for Law Enforcement Authorities (LEAs) within the FULL-PROOF project was held on 3rd – 4th December 2025 in Bratislava, hosted by the Academy of the Police Force in Bratislava. The workshop gathered project partners and police officers from Slovakia, Poland, and Romania to exchange experiences and strengthen the protection of procedural rights during suspects’ and accused persons’ first interrogation.
Building Competence Through Practice
The workshop followed the FULL-PROOF philosophy of hands-on, experience-driven training, combining expert presentations with practical activities. Participants engaged in simulation-based case studies, scenario work inspired by real investigations, and interactive discussions. A notable feature was an exercise involving individuals serving prison sentences, giving police officers a unique opportunity to understand procedural rights from the perspective of real suspects.
Focus on EU Directives and Real-World Cases
The sessions explored how EU directives on access to information, legal assistance and legal aid are implemented in national systems, and how they influence day-to-day police work. A cross-national roundtable facilitated the comparison of national interrogation practices, highlighting challenges and good practices within the three participating countries. In addition, officers presented real cases from their jurisdictions, reflecting on both positive and problematic experiences, and considering opportunities for improvement in safeguarding suspects’ rights.
Strengthening Trust and Cross-Border Collaboration
In line with the objectives of Task 4.1, the workshop aimed to build trust, exchange professional experience, and deepen awareness of the Rule of Law within police practice. By working together on shared scenarios, officers not only developed practical competencies, but also gained insight into each other’s professional environments and legal frameworks. The programme concluded with a study visit to the Bratislava Police Department and Police Museum, reinforcing contextual knowledge of Slovak policing.
The workshop forms part of a continued effort to foster cooperation based on communication, transparency, and respect for procedural guarantees, ensuring effective and rights-respecting law enforcement across Europe. The next Cross-Border Workshop for LEAs is planned to take place in Bucharest, Romania in April 2026, and will build on the outcomes of this event, contributing to the broader goals of FULL-PROOF under the JUST programme.
