8.6.1.6 Work Tools for Case Management

New investigators are unlikely to have significant pertinent experience in investigating human rights abuses. Members of NHRIs such as commissioners, no matter how competent, are equally unlikely to have this knowledge. Training will help, but developing standard tools, operating policies in manuals or similar tools is critical. Several NHRIs use standard forms and precedents in the case management process, but not all have clear, comprehensive and regularly updated manuals. Manuals are major undertakings and should be specifically targeted as projects once the case design and other basic working processes are in place.

The development of such tools should be required at the outset so that there is no significant time lapse between establishing the institution and undertaking investigations. The risks associated with not doing so are great and could generate longstanding problems.

Annex 5: Types of Case Management Reports

Annex 6: Case Management Policies and Procedures