B. Human rights investigations process A human rights investigation has to adopt a systematic approach to uncovering the truth about serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law. A methodical approach will ensure that the investigation is thorough, professional and able to withstand scrutiny, especially by those alleged to have perpetrated violations. Throughout the investigation, the protection of victims, witnesses, sources and others with whom the investigation team comes into contact is paramount. INVESTIGATION PROCESS 8 7 6 Identifying responsibility for violations 9 Report 1 Evaluation and analysis of information gathered Satellite images Expert opinions 5 Examining sites of human rights violations 4 Survey of open source materials, other reports and identification of priorities 2 Investigation plans 3 Field visits Collecting and recording information Note: After evaluation and analysis of information gathered (step 7), it may be necessary to revisit investigation plans (step 2) and collect and record additional information (step 4) through a variety of methods. 1. MANDATE, INTERPRETATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF TERMS OF REFERENCE As mentioned previously, mandates have typically been defined in general terms of establishment of facts, investigation of allegations and gathering of information on violations of human rights and international humanitarian law. In most cases, commissions/missions will have to interpret the mandate before setting out to implement it. The interpretation 36 COMMISSIONS OF INQUIRY AND FACT-FINDING MISSIONS ON INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS AND HUMANITARIAN LAW