Collection

Training materials: International Protocol on the documentation and investigation of sexual violence in conflict

Training material and guidance on how to use and implement the International Protocol on the documentation and investigation of sexual violence in conflict.

How to use and implement the International Protocol on the documentation and investigation of sexual violence in conflict.

This material has been produced by the Institute for International Criminal Investigations (IICI).

Introduction

Contains general notes for users, disclaimer, acknowledgement and information on the authors.

Using the Protocol

Sets out the purpose of the Protocol and why it is important.

Understanding sexual violence

Sets out definition of sexual violence and gender-based violence, as well as addressing myths and stereotypes.

Sexual violence as an international crime

Provides basic principles and concepts of international criminal law, and the 3 main categories of evidence needed to hold someone accountable for an international crime: specific, contextual and linkage evidence.

Preliminary considerations

Sets out the guiding principle for any documentation and/or investigation, which is ‘do no harm’ to survivors.

Key planning topics

Sets out key practical issues to consider when planning investigation or documentation.

Identifying survivors and other witnesses

Sets out issues to consider when divising ways to identify and approaching survivors and witnesses.

Testimony

Sets out issues to consider when collecting testimonies or statements from survivors and witnesses.

Interviewing

Sets out ethical considerations for interviewing and dealing with survivors or witnesses of sexual violence.

Additional sources of information

Provides detailed information on both potential types of information and evidence, and the correct way to process and record such information.

Storing information

Sets out issues to consider when maintaining the security and confidentiality of evidence or information that has been collected.

Updates to this page

Published 15 August 2016