3. INFORMATION DISCLOSURE During the selection process, candidates are requested to disclose any information that may lead to questions being raised about their independence, impartiality and integrity, including, for example, any publication on the object of the inquiry, political affiliations, financial interest in the country in question, membership in any organization that might be involved or have an interest in the matters under investigation. Commissions/missions, their members and their work are often under intense public scrutiny. In addition to ensuring transparency and enhancing confidence in the work of the commission/mission, disclosing and considering information ahead of time strengthens the credibility of members, and the ability of the mandating authority and of the commission/mission to withstand disingenuous attempts to discredit their work. It is also important for members to be aware of the work involved when accepting this task, and not to take up any other duties or responsibilities during their tenure that could affect perceptions of their independence, integrity and impartiality or their ability to fully perform the tasks expected of them. 4. APPOINTMENT Once the candidates have confirmed their interest and availability, the mandating authority issues a letter of appointment, which clearly states the mandate and timeline of the commission/ mission, and the role and task expected of the members. The mandating authority usually designates one member, at the time of his/her appointment, as Chair of the commission/ mission. The letter also specifies the support to be provided by OHCHR, as well as the role of the secretariat. Appointees are requested to respond in writing to confirm acceptance of their task and sign an undertaking to act independently and impartially throughout their tenure, to respect confidentiality and not to disclose information including after the end of their appointment (see subsect. 5, below). Upon receipt of written confirmations, the mandating authority usually issues a public statement announcing the appointment of the members. Members usually serve pro bono. 5. DECLARATION BY MEMBERS Upon appointment, members are requested by the mandating authority to sign the following declaration: GUIDANCE AND PRACTICE 21