Transparency The commission/mission should, as far as is possible without detriment to its work or the security of its staff, information and persons cooperating with it, make information about its mandate, methodology and work publicly available. Commissions/missions do not work in secrecy and undertake activities in a country only with the consent of the Government. Objectivity The commission/mission is required to collect all relevant facts from all relevant sources, objectively consider all the facts and information gathered and base its conclusions on the facts gathered. It should take into consideration only information that is gathered in an unbiased and impartial manner. Confidentiality The commission/mission is required to respect the confidentiality of persons who cooperate with it and of the information it gathers. In addition to the protection it affords, confidentiality enhances the credibility of the commission/mission, the integrity of its information-gathering activities and the effectiveness of its work. Credibility The commission/mission has to gain the trust of victims, witnesses and others to obtain their cooperation in providing information. It should not make any promises it is unlikely to fulfil and should follow through on any promises it does make. Visibility The commission/mission should have a visible presence in the country concerned, if it is granted access. This makes the authorities aware of its work, and allows victims and witnesses to approach it with information. Visibility could also deter further human rights violations. However, the commission/mission should be aware that visibility could also present risks to persons wanting to cooperate with it, and should take appropriate precautions. Integrity The commission/mission should treat all victims, witnesses and other cooperating persons with decency and respect. It should be respectful in its dealings with government authorities and alleged perpetrators. Members and staff should act with honesty. They should also ensure that the commission’s/mission’s investigation methodology guarantees the integrity of the process of collecting, evaluating and analysing information, and is beyond reproach. 34 COMMISSIONS OF INQUIRY AND FACT-FINDING MISSIONS ON INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS AND HUMANITARIAN LAW