This chapter
analyses tools and techniques used to document human rights abuse. It
outlines the opportunities and pitfalls associated with the use of
information and communication technologies by human rights
organizations, and it examines the importance of rigorous documentation
to underpin human rights work. Tools developed to help grassroots
organizations record usable and actionable information are contrasted
with an initiative that actively involves citizens in the reporting of
xenophobic attacks. The analysis shows that the tools and systems used
to monitor human rights violations are essential to the effective
implementation of human rights standards. It also shows that new
technologies can empower ordinary citizens to become directly involved
in awareness building and debate about human rights abuse.