“Transparency” means that when HRF takes a case or makes a determination, we show—not just tell—what we know and believe. All of our decisions, methods, and principles are public. For every case that we take on, we are as open and clear as we can about why we perceive a rights violation and how we arrived at our position. We disclose fully all relevant case information, regardless of whether that information strengthens or weakens our position. Nothing that we do is immune to public scrutiny, and if that scrutiny uncovers errors in our data or reasoning, we will readily revise our judgment and issue corrections. In short, we pledge never to use “because we said so” as a justification for determining that a human rights violation has occurred.

The only exception to our policy of full public disclosure is when information that has been received and verified would subject individuals to life-threatening circumstances. (We have already seen this occur in cases we have investigated and have realized that victims and their families will more readily trust and open up to us if we promise them anonymity or confidentiality.) Whenever such a life-threatening circumstance ceases to be, we will at that point reveal sources previously protected.

We welcome public criticism to ensure that we do not stray from the highest standards of research and analysis. Most importantly, we view our integrity as our most powerful weapon in the struggle for liberty throughout the Americas.

Audited Financials

• 2006 Audited Financial Statement