A/69/387 conduct nor expensive. However, the test seems to be unavailable in a number of countries. In cases of sexual abuse, DNA detection may be required. The diagnosis of electrical lesions is also possible and methods do exist. 22 43. The Special Rapporteur notes that the diagnosis of torture is usually not based on “high-tech” methods or cost intensive equipment and that forensic assessment of torture is less a question of financial resources than of training and commitment by the authorities to ensure effective investigation into allegations of torture. The Special Rapporteur observes that clinical exploration, and in particular psychological and psychiatric examination, blood tests with CPK and X-rays and photographic pictures cover up to 90 per cent of the needs of an effective investigation. Together with the proper documentation of findings, those techniques are inexpensive and easily available. Limited financial resources should therefore never be an excuse for the absence of forensic investigation and evidence. He also notes the importance of supporting countries where documentation is not developed or where forensic systems need reforms, through professional exchanges and sharing know-how, provided the recipient country demonstrates commitment and good faith. Capacity development 44. Forensic medicine requires a continuous effort to remain abreast of new developments through ongoing training, study and reflection to provide information about previously undocumented torture situations and their physical and psychological consequences, transmit knowledge of new means of diagnosis and their potential, generate reflection on experiences arising from interventions in the field, and divulge new standards and guidelines. 23 In order to fulfil their obligation to investigate, prosecute and punish and ensure reparations for torture and other ill-treatment, there is a need for more forensic experts (including pathologists, physicians, psychiatrists, psychologists, anthropologists and archaeologists) trained to do Istanbul Protocol evaluations. Emphasis must be laid upon training of forensic professionals in the documentation of torture sequels. There are still few State and non-State forensic specialists in the world. The participation of other physicians in such training and on the examination of alleged torture victims could help tackle this problem. Teaching is thus a key factor. States must also ensure even distribution of clinicians throughout the country. Equally important is the training of judicial, prosecutorial and law enforcement professionals. Prevention and investigation of torture under the Istanbul Protocol must be part of their compulsory legal __________________ 22 23 14-61535 See H. K. Thomsen, “Electrically Induced Epidermal Changes: A Morphological Study of Porcine Skin After Transfer of Low-Moderate Amounts of Electrical Energy”, Ph.D. dissertation (University of Copenhagen, 1984); T. Karlsmark, “Electrically Induced Dermal Changes: A Morphological Study of Porcine Skin After Transfer of Low to Moderate Amounts of Electrical Energy”, Danish Medical Bulletin, vol. 37 (1990); L. Danielsen, T. Karlsmark, H. K. Thomsen, J. L. Thomsen and L. E. Balding, “Diagnosis of electrical skin injuries. A review and a description of a case”, American Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology, vol. 12, no. 3 (1991); and H. Jacobsen, “Electrically Induced Deposition of Metal on the Human Skin”, University Institute of Forensic Science, vol. 90 (1997). See Duarte Nuno Vieira, “Forensic Evidence against Torture”, TORTURE Journal on Rehabilitation of Torture Victims and Prevention of Torture, vol. 22, supp. 1, (2012). 13/23