26 Investigating Human Rights Violations Against Women and Persons with Diverse Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expressions witness protection services. It should be emphasized that credible investigation findings and conclusions on human rights violation, gender-based violence, women’s exploitation, abuses and discrimination, will serve as basis or aid in seeking justice for the victims, including prosecution and punishment of the violators. Further, investigation and monitoring reports on human rights violations and gender-based violations, including human rights situations are rich sources of validated information, which can be used as basis for policy and program development, including legislative action in relation to human rights in general, and to women’s rights in particular. Specific to the Commission’s mandate as Gender Ombud, investigators handling women’s cases and cases of persons with diverse sexual orientation and gender identity and expression are expected to follow and adhere to the above mentioned Investigation Protocols. CHR Gender Ombud Guidelines