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Fact-finding
Overview of the Evidence
Our research review includes 6 reports that address the effects of fact-finding on closely related outcomes, such as civilian killings, human rights violations, and conflict recurrence. We did not find any studies meeting our inclusion criteria that addressed the effects of fact-finding on mass atrocities. Our research review found the following:
- A mix of findings as to whether fact-finding was effective in helping prevent mass atrocities or closely related outcomes,
- Limited evidence on which specific factors contribute to the effectiveness of fact-finding in helping prevent mass atrocities or closely related outcomes, and
- No factors with at least 2 findings about their association with the effectiveness of fact-finding, which is why we do not provide a Success Factors tab for this tool.
About Fact-finding
Definition
Fact-finding is the acquisition “of detailed knowledge about the factual circumstances of any dispute or situation … which might threaten the maintenance of international peace and security” (UN General Assembly 1991) and/or the investigation of violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law in an effort “to promote accountability … and counter impunity” (OHCHR 2015, p. 2).
Theory of Change
If fact-finding leads potential perpetrators to believe that abuses will be publicized, it would increase their expected costs of committing atrocities and thereby reduce the likelihood or severity of mass atrocities. If fact-finding provides vulnerable civilian populations with additional information about potential perpetrators’ capabilities or intentions, it would aid in civilian-led protection efforts in ways that reduce the severity of mass atrocities.