Conducting a National Inquiry into Systemic Patterns of Human Rights Violation Chapter 14: Release the report KEY QUESTIONS • What is the inquiry’s purpose in releasing the report? • How should the release be staged for best effect? • What activities should be undertaken before and after the release? 14.1. THE RELEASE PROMOTES IMPLEMENTATION Releasing the report of the inquiry is a turning point in the inquiry’s life. It does not represent the end of the inquiry, even if it does represent the culmination of the work of gathering evidence and other information, hearing expert witnesses, analysing the situation, preparing the report and developing recommendations. It is certainly a culmination. But it is also the beginning of a new phase in the inquiry’s life. The purpose of the inquiry is not merely the production of the report. It is effecting fundamental changes to improve the human rights enjoyment of those whose rights are violated or at risk of violation. Releasing the report is directed towards: • public acknowledgement of and reporting back to victims • informing the community and key stakeholders of the inquiry’s findings and recommendations • promoting implementation of the recommendations. Of these, implementation is the most important. The release is directed not primarily to reflecting on the work the inquiry has done and the findings it has made. It is primarily directed to what should happen next, the implementation of recommendations. The findings or conclusions of the inquiry are important in raising awareness in the community about the issue examined. However, they are also the basis for moving forward, for righting the wrongs that victims have experienced and for preventing future violations. The release can promote implementation of the recommendations by: • drawing the attention of key members of the Government, the parliament and the public to the report and its recommendations • providing an opportunity for the inquiry itself to highlight and explain the main conclusions and recommendations • strengthening ownership and support from key stakeholders • obtaining coverage in the media and building media support • increasing public understanding and acceptance. Plans for the release should address these five aspects. 70