IIRG 2026 Conference and Masterclass
6-10 July 2026
KU Leuven in Belgium
5 Jan
Abstract submissions open
13 Feb
Abstracts Due
31 March
Decisions sent to authors
Mid May
Masterclass “preview” webinar - Child Suspect Interviewing
6–10 July
Masterclass & Conference in Leuven
The International Investigative Interviewing Research Group (iIIRG) is a global network of investigative interviewing practitioners, researchers, and professionals. We promote ethical and evidence-based information gathering from suspects, witnesses, and victims.
By uniting researchers, practitioners, trainers, and policymakers, iIIRG seeks to advance science-based approaches that enhance justice and security while maintaining high ethical standards.
Be part of an active and enthusiastic community of academics, practitioners, and students working together to support effective, evidence-based, ethical interviewing practices worldwide.
Membership benefits include:
Discounted 2026 Conference Registration, event discounts, free webinars, members database, access to exclusive resources, free masterclass applications, conference bursaries, and more.
6–7 July | Hosted by ImpleMéndez
Join leading experts in investigative interviewing for a focused and practical training school on interviewing child suspects.
This masterclass will explore:
the vulnerability of young suspects
rapport building with young suspects
memory-informed practices for interviewing child suspects
insights on questioning style from a legal, psychological, and linguistic perspective
case studies and interactive exercises
This training is designed for practitioners, researchers, and policymakers working in law enforcement, child protection, and justice systems. It offers a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of how to conduct interviews of child suspects.
ImpleMendez
The project “Establishing Networks to Implement the Principles on Effective Interviewing for Investigations” (IMPLEMENDEZ) CA22128 is an EU-funded COST Action.
8–10 July
Immediately following the Masterclass/Training School
The iIIRG conference brings together a global community of professionals and academics committed to improving investigative interviewing practices.
The 2026 conference will feature:
thought-provoking keynotes on policy and practice reform
presentations on cutting-edge research and practice
panel discussions and poster sessions
networking opportunities with experts and practitioners from across disciplines
The conference will explore broader developments in investigative interviewing, including memory science, legal safeguards, and implementation strategies.
Leuven is a historic university city, home to KU Leuven, the oldest university in the Low Countries, founded in 1425 by Pope Martin V. It has been a centre of learning ever since, combining medieval charm with modern academic excellence.
We look forward to welcoming you and hope you enjoy your time in Leuven!
DISCOVER LEUVEN
Leuven is compact and easy to explore on foot. For longer distances, you can:
Rent a bike at Fietspunt Leuven (Mon–Fri, 07:00–19:00, in front of Leuven Train Station)
Take the bus — routes are easy to find on Google Maps
Explore the official Visit Leuven website for more information
ROCK WERCGTER FESTIVAL
From July 2–5, Leuven hosts many festivalgoers for Rock Werchter. Expect busy stations and higher hotel prices around these dates.
If you plan to arrive early and can’t find accommodation in Leuven, consider staying in Brussels (just 25 min by train).
Guesthouse Begijnhof
Theater Hotel (The Lodge)
IBIS Leuven Centrum
IBIS Budget Leuven Centrum
NOVOTEL Leuven Centrum
Begijnhof Hotel
Irish College Leuven
Park Inn by Radisson Leuven
The Lodge Leuven
Getaway Leuven
The Lodge Heverlee
Martin’s Klooster
For PhD students:
Guesthouse Herman Servotte
Guesthouse De Viking
For hotels, discounted rates, location and more, download the latest iIIRG hotel guide below:
Direct trains from Brussels Airport (BRU) to Leuven run every 20–30 minutes. The journey takes about 13 minutes.
Benefit from cooperation with the Lufthansa Group airlines for discounted rates for iIIRG participants.
Discounts apply up to one week before and after the event.
Note: Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL) is 90 km from Leuven with no direct train connection.
BRU is the preferred arrival airport.
The iIIRG Conference and Masterclass will take place at:
Faculty of Law and Criminology, KU Leuven
College de Valk
Tiensestraat 41
3000 Leuven
Welcome Reception
Orangerie Kruidtuin
Kapucijnenvoer 30
3000 Leuven
Conference Dinner
Faculty Club
Groot Begijnhof 14
3000 Leuven
Registration opens at 8:30
Welcome & introduction
Topics: vulnerability of young suspects, rapport building, adolescent memory
Q&A — ends by 17:30
- Registration opens at 8:30
- Language sessions & practical exercises
- Post-measurement and networking discussion
- Conference opening reception at 18:00
- Registration opens at 8:15
- Opening session & keynote: Prof. Dr. Lilian Milnitsky Stein
- Parallel sessions
- Annual iIIRG general meeting
- Digital investigative interviewing game
- Evening social activity
Registration opens at 8:15
Keynote: Prof. Dr. Lennart May
Parallel sessions & poster session
Conference dinner at 18:30 (Faculty Club)
Registration opens at 8:15
Keynote: Philippe Daeninck (defence lawyer, Belgium)
Final parallel sessions
Closing session at 15:40
Conference ends at 16:10