© UNODC
Maputo (Mozambique), 5 March 2025 – Mock trials are a powerful way to test the admissibility of evidence and refine courtroom strategies.
Since 2022, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has conducted 8 mock trials in Mozambique. These exercises provide a platform for lawyers, public defenders, prosecutors, and judges to practice applying legal frameworks, identifying evidentiary challenges, and making sound judicial decisions – ultimately strengthening their ability to handle complex cases effectively.
In March 2025, UNODC conducted its latest mock trial in Mozambique, focused on both terrorism and organized crime.
The mock trial took place over two days and followed a practical and interactive approach, where participants were introduced to simulated cases, including a detailed analysis of the evidence and all the stages of the judicial process.
The sessions were led by legal experts and involved case instruction, presentation of evidence, and trial hearings, fostering a dynamic and collaborative learning environment.
Following this, participants continued the hearings and took part in the decision-making phase of the trial, concluding in an interactive discussion on the challenges encountered, the exchange of best practices, and the awarding of certificates to participants.
The mock trial was widely praised by participants for its role in enhancing their skills in evaluating and admitting evidence in terrorism and organized crime cases.
From the participants’ point of view, this activity strengthens legal capacity through practical experience in evidence management, as well as improving inter-institutional collaboration, fostering dialogue and cooperation within the criminal justice system.
This training methodology complements other UNODC initiatives aimed at strengthening the criminal justice system’s capacity to combat terrorism and organized crime. These include simulations on how to collect and manage evidence in conflict settings as well as mock trials, specialized training – both intensive and extensive – on case management for investigators and prosecutors, as well as programs focused on prisoner rehabilitation and reintegration.
This initiative was made possible thanks to the generous support of the European Union.
