Psychophysiological Survey Using a Polygraph as a Mechanism for Ensuring the Integrity of Customs Authorities’ Civil Servants
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The article examines the legal and organizational aspects of conducting psychophysiological testing using a polygraph in the process of selecting and evaluating officials of Ukraine’s customs authorities. The study analyzes the regulatory framework governing this procedure, its effectiveness in personnel processes, as well as potential risks and legal conflicts. The fundamental principles of psychophysiological testing are identified, including voluntariness, legality, comprehensiveness, confidentiality, and the protection of individual rights. The article also explores the legal implications of the obtained results, their role in decision-making regarding personnel, and the balance between state interests and the rights of customs officials. The introduction of polygraph testing in customs personnel policy contributes to the detection of corruption risks, unethical behavior, and conflicts of interest, thereby ensuring transparency in the personnel selection process. However, the integration of this tool must be accompanied by clear guidelines to ensure the rights of employees are respected throughout the process. At the same time, the application of this tool raises certain legal and ethical debates, particularly concerning its legal status, as polygraph results are probabilistic in nature and cannot serve as the sole basis for disciplinary or personnel decisions. There is a need for more robust legal frameworks to address these concerns and to provide a more precise definition of the role of polygraph testing in the public sector. The study analyzes international experience in the use of polygraphs in the public service sector, highlighting examples from various countries where polygraph tests have been successfully implemented as part of personnel assessment and anti-corruption initiatives. It considers the potential adaptation of best practices to Ukraine’s customs sphere, emphasizing the importance of customizing these practices to fit the specific context of Ukrainian legislation and customs operations. Recommendations are proposed for improving the regulatory framework for polygraphuse in customs authorities, including the need for standardized testing methodologies, over sight of objectivity, and compliance with the rights of the individuals being tested. The developmentof a comprehensive training program for specialists conducting the tests is also suggested, aimed at increasing the reliability and validity of the results obtained. In conclusion, the article emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach to assessing the professional integrity of customs officials and the need for further refinement of legal regulations in this area. The integration of polygraph testing into personnel policy can serve as an effective tool for enhancing the integrity and transparency of the customs service, provided that ethical considerations and legal safeguards are adequately addressed.
Source: Constitutional State
Author: O. V. Cherkunov
Institution: Uzhhorod National University
Language: English
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4409767799