MPORT: Anonymous witnesses
Short description
This research track within MPORT focuses on the use of anonymous witnesses in legal proceedings, with particular emphasis on how anonymity affects witnesses’ willingness to testify, the reliability of their statements, and the defendant’s right to a fair trial. The research aims to establish a scientific basis for understanding the consequences of anonymous testimony.
Allowing witnesses to provide testimony anonymously is a controversial legal measure that raises questions about the balance between effective law enforcement and legal safeguards. One potential advantage of anonymity is that individuals who would otherwise be unwilling to come forward may be able to contribute important information, particularly in cases involving threats or fear of retaliation. At the same time, the use of anonymous witnesses raises important concerns regarding the reliability of testimony and the defendant’s ability to challenge the evidence.
The overall aim of this track is to empirically investigate the following questions:
i) To what extent does the possibility of anonymity influence individuals’ willingness to testify?
ii) To what extent does anonymity affect the assessment of witness statements?
iii) How do legal practitioners, such as judges, prosecutors, and defense attorneys, perceive the legislation on anonymity, and how does it function in practice?