International Fact-Finding Panel Discussion

Title: “From Raising the Alarm to Proving the Case: Fact-Finding in International Cases”

Panel Chair: Professor Yvonne McDermott Rees

Speakers: To be confirmed

How does information gathered through human-rights monitoring, commissions of inquiry and other fact-finding processes become evidence capable of being relied upon in international proceedings? This panel discussion will examine the relationship – and the important distinctions – between human-rights fact-finding and judicial or prosecutorial investigation. Expert speakers will consider the practical challenges of identifying, preserving, testing and presenting evidence in international criminal and public international law cases, particularly where material has been gathered in difficult, contested or politically sensitive environments.

The discussion will also explore how lawyers can bridge the gap between complex factual realities - including armed conflict, cyber operations, environmental destruction and serious human-rights violations - and the evidential requirements applied by international courts and tribunals. Attendees will gain practical insights into evidence collection, credibility assessment, digital verification, witness protection and the use of experts, as well as the ways in which developments in technology are changing international fact-finding and litigation.

The session will include an opportunity for Q&A and networking.

Book/Cancel by: 29/10/2026

Please note: student tickets will be available from 1st week of September.