3 FOREWORD This guide is intended as an auxiliary instrument to the Istanbul Protocol and has been developed as a source of practical reference for lawyers engaged in the investigation and documentation of cases of alleged torture. It is researched and written by REDRESS within a framework of partnership led by the International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims (IRCT) in collaboration with the Human Rights Foundation of Turkey (HRFT), Physicians for Human Rights USA (PHR USA), REDRESS, and World Medical Association. Similar guides have been developed for medical doctors, “Medical physical examination of alleged torture victims: A practical guide to the Istanbul Protocol – for medical doctors” (IRCT, 2009a) and for psychologists, “Psychological evaluation of torture allegations: A practical guide to the Istanbul Protocol – for psychologists” (IRCT 2009b). It is hoped that these materials offer insights and create synergy between the health and legal professions in a joint effort to combat torture. The Manual on the Effective Investigation and Documentation of Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, in popular terms the Istanbul Protocol, contains the first set of internationally recognised standards for the effective examination, investigation and reporting of allegations of torture and ill-treatment. It was drafted by more than 75 experts in law, health and human rights during three years of collective effort involving more than 40 different organisations including the IRCT. The extensive work was initiated and coordinated by the HRFT and the PHR USA. Since its inception in 1999 the Istanbul Protocol has been endorsed and promoted by the UN and other key human rights bodies. It exists in Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian and Spanish.