As transnational crime grows more complex, the role of prosecutors in upholding the rule of law across borders has never been more vital. This 10-day International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) brought together Polish prosecutors and legal professionals to explore how the U.S. legal system advances prosecutorial efficiency, judicial accountability, and international cooperation. Through site visits in Washington, DC; Boise, ID; and Miami, FL, participants examined how American legal institutions respond to contemporary challenges. The exchange fostered cross-border dialogue on justice reform and legal innovation, equipping participants with fresh perspectives to strengthen democratic governance and the rule of law at home.

Project Objectives

The program spanned three U.S. cities—Washington, DC; Boise, ID; and Miami, FL—each offering a unique lens into the American legal landscape:

Washington, DC: Participants began with an overview of the U.S. federal system and the judicial framework. A visit to the U.S. Supreme Court provided insight into the Court’s influence on national legal standards. Prosecutors from the National Center for State Courts led in-depth discussions on judicial ethics, civil asset forfeiture, and anti-money laundering policies. The DC visit concluded with a celebration of Polish Constitution Day hosted by Bogdan Klich, Head of Mission at the Embassy of the Republic of Poland and 1990 Meridian IVLP alumni, and attended by IVLP alumni.

Boise, ID: In Idaho, the delegation focused on grassroots approaches to judicial transparency and public trust. At Idaho’s Fourth Judicial District Court, they observed jury selection and examined courtroom technology and case management systems. Meetings with the Office of Police Accountability and Boise Police Department highlighted models for civilian oversight and interagency collaboration. Prosecutors detailed practices for managing prosecutorial discretion, providing victim services, and integrating forensic science to prevent wrongful convictions.

Miami, FL: In Florida, the program addressed the intersection of criminal justice with economic and transnational crime. At the Central and Eastern European Trade Center, discussions centered on how efficient legal enforcement supports sustainable trade and economic stability. A virtual session with the Export-Import Bank of the U.S. provided further insight into fraud prevention and international legal cooperation. Visits to the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Economic Crimes Unit, Public Defender’s Office, and County Sheriff’s Office explored data-informed approaches to white-collar crime, AI in public defense, and coordinated law enforcement responses to organized crime.

Impact and Next Steps

Participants concluded the program with a deeper understanding of how prosecutorial practices, legal ethics, and interagency coordination can be adapted to strengthen justice systems at home. Exposure to a range of judicial environments—from the federal bench to local oversight offices—offered transferable strategies to enhance efficiency and fairness in criminal proceedings.