• Review leaders’ public statements to determine whether they comply with the obligation to condemn all kinds of GBV and do not use a derogatory narrative that perpetuates harmful gender stereotypes that condone – or even incite – violence; that they are protected when engaging with judicial mechanisms, including protective orders, injunctions, guarantees of confidentiality, etc. They should also have access to adequate information and comprehensive medical treatment, mental health care and psychosocial support; • Analysing whether reported crimes and allegations of violations and abuses are investigated, prosecuted and punished and that reparations were effectively granted and provided to victims; • Examining whether there have been any efforts to raise awareness among victims about their right to reparations.40 A State could, for example, establish programmes for reparations and assistance to victims and survivors of GBV. Where reparations programme were established, consider whether the State adequately and widely consulted with victims when establishing it;41 • Examining whether there is impunity for GBV and trying to understand the causes of impunity. This may include a lack of will, a lack of resources and human capacity in the judicial system to handle claims, a lack of independence of the judiciary or protection of perpetrators by state institutions, a lack of understanding of duty bearers, and the prevalence of gender stereotypes and patriarchal societal norms that minimize the importance of crimes against women and GBV more generally. Underreporting may also be explained by victims’ fear and reluctance to engage with the justice system, a lack of protection measures or psychosocial support, accessibility barriers or limited awareness of available complaint mechanisms; • Investigating whether there are alternative dispute resolution processes that discriminate against women, established by law or by local customary practices. For example, informal justice systems such as traditional, customary, tribal or religious systems might not comply with international human rights standards, and may prove to be an obstacle to ensuring protection and redress for victims and survivors of GBV. Additionally, they might face pressure from their families and community to accept an out-of-court settlement with the perpetrator. • Considering whether the officials involved in the administration of justice, including prosecutors, lawyers, police and judges, understand the sensitivities surrounding violations of women’s rights or of LGBTI persons’ rights. For example, gendersensitive practices (e.g. the use of female police officers, choice of the time and location of interview so as not to expose women, etc.) should be employed in investigations of GBV. Legal aid should be available and accessible to victims and survivors of GBV, particularly those belonging to disadvantaged populations. Victims and witnesses should be able to access safeguards in order to ensure For more extensive guidance on redress and reparations, see CEDAW general recommendation No. 33 (2015). 40 For policy and operational guidance on engaging/ supporting reparations initiatives, see Guidance Note of the Secretary-General: Reparations for Conflict-Related Sexual Violence, June 2014. 41 31