The normal human rights and monitoring functions of OSCE field operations include such activities as making inquiries with government officials, collecting publicly available information, receiving testimonies from individuals, and making contact with other organizations. The distinction between such normal monitoring activities and an investigation are not always easy to define. In general, investigations involve a broader and more proactive effort to obtain information about a specific human rights violation than would a monitoring function. An investigation is intended to assess the validity of claims and to determine, if possible, what steps can be taken to address the problem. The aim is to establish the facts of exactly what happened or is happening, to prepare a report that contains a conclusion and, where appropriate, recommendations for action by the OSCE and/or by the host government. Thorough investigations can require a good deal of time, effort, and human resources. They can be politically sensitive and occasionally may be dangerous. These factors should be carefully considered before beginning an investigation. In general, only large OSCE field operations will be equipped to carry out investigations. However, even small missions may initiate limited investigations or inquiries if they are presented with extremely serious individual complaints. Examples of such issues might include enforced disappearances, mistreatment of prisoners, or unfair trials. A first step before beginning an investigation is for the field mission to assess whether the specific investigation contemplated is within its mandate. The mission’s mandate does not have to specify that it can carry out investigations, but the complaint to be investigated should fall clearly within the mission’s general human rights mandate. If the mission determines that an investigation is merited, the next step should be to pursue an inquiry to collect evidence and verify information concerning the alleged violation, as well as the response of the authorities, including the military, police, and the judicial system, where relevant. Evidence could include statements by victims, witnesses, and others who may be connected to the case, e.g., a doctor who examined the victim, legal experts, or law enforcement personnel. Evidence may also include physical items, such as photographs, videotapes, or weapons. Missions should always keep in mind that any investigation or inquiry they undertake is in the nature of fact-finding, not judicial or prosecutorial. Except in rare instances, missions do not attempt to gather evidence for criminal prosecution. They should be careful not to interfere with any official inquiry that may be under way or take any steps that could com- 67 7