A/HRC/20/19
117. Prosecutors should be provided with adequate infrastructure and physical
conditions of work, as well as with the necessary human and technical resources to
effectively perform their tasks. This includes the provision of specialized training and
the necessary resources, investigative equipment and technical skills.
118. States should ensure the personal safety of prosecutors and their families. Any
act of violence or threats of violence, or any form of intimidation, coercion or
inappropriate interference against prosecutors and/or their families should be duly
investigated. Likewise, steps should be taken to prevent their future recurrence and to
provide prosecutors and their families with the necessary counselling or psychological
support, when appropriate.
119. Prosecutors should at all times conduct themselves professionally and strive to
be, and to be seen to be, independent and impartial. Prosecutors should not be
candidates in political elections without resigning from their functions.
Accountability of prosecutors
120. Prosecutors should be accountable in the discharge of their functions. All
disciplinary and other proceedings against prosecutors should be carried out in full
conformity with applicable international norms and standards, including the right to
a fair trial before an independent and impartial court or disciplinary body established
by law.
121. Interested parties should be able to challenge decisions not to prosecute as this
can serve as a means to ensure greater accountability and transparency.
122. Priority should be given to the establishment of effective measures to combat
corruption in prosecution services.
123. Code of ethics for prosecutors should be established and compliance with their
provisions should be monitored and accounted for.
Capacity-building
124. Prosecutors should receive adequate training both on initial appointment and
periodically throughout their career. Training should mandatorily include regional
and international human rights norms and standards. Training on the gendersensitive handling of cases should be also provided.
125. In addition to the necessary specific and separate training for prosecutors, joint
training for judges, prosecutors and lawyers on themes of common interest should be
encouraged as it could enhance mutual understanding and cooperation.
126. The training of prosecutors should be paid by the State as an important
incentive to their qualifications.
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