Human remains lie exposed in a mass grave under investigation by a commission of inquiry. UN / OHCHR Photo (c) Video material and photographs Mobile phones with the capability of taking high-quality photographs and videos are now ubiquitous, and a common tool used by people around the world to capture events that are occurring around them. Many videos, for example, of the conflict in the Syrian Arab Republic, are uploaded to public sites such as YouTube, and videos and photographs are shared through social networking sites such as Facebook. Community activists set up their own blogs to share such material and to provide comments on the events they are witnessing. These images offer interesting and important information for investigators, especially where access may be difficult or impossible. They could provide information on incidents that have not been widely reported or several videos could provide different perspectives on incidents widely reported in the international media. Social networking and media sites have also become important propaganda tools for all sides involved in conflict situations. Videos and photographs provide investigators with interesting leads. Yet, they also present them with considerable challenges. Without adequate resources, including expert analysis, it is difficult to establish their authenticity and veracity. Were the images altered? Did the incident actually occur? Did the persons in the images actually commit the acts portrayed? Independent corroboration of the material is therefore essential. 44 COMMISSIONS OF INQUIRY AND FACT-FINDING MISSIONS ON INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS AND HUMANITARIAN LAW