outlining the principles of informed consent or by audio-recording the interaction with the victim or witness on the topic of informed consent. 2. Ensure the consent given is based on free will: • Establish a relationship of genuine trust that enables the victim or witness to agree freely and voluntarily or feel able to refuse. • Clearly explain, in their own language, that the victim or witness has a choice whether or not to provide information and that this choice can be exercised at any time throughout the process. • Clearly explain your mandate, and the mandate of those institutions you intent to share this information with, as well as the expected use you will make of such information. • Interact with care and respect and not abusing one’s power. • Ensure that the victim or witness has enough time to decide whether or not to consent to participating. The amount of time they need should take into account the consequences of participation both now and in the future for themselves, their families and communities. It should also recognize the difficulty of assessing risks while in a vulnerable situation and in their particular context. • Confirm every time the victim or witness is contacted and at every stage of each interaction that they have not changed their mind about the use of the information or who it is shared with. • Provide any documents or forms in the victim or witness’ own language. • If necessary, use interpreters who are competent in word-for-word interpretation and ensuring that the meaning and requirements of informed consent are fully understood.11 3. Obtain explicit consent for specific activities: • Ensure consent is given for note taking or using devices such as a tape recorder or video camera during an interview. The victim or witness must be aware that notes or an audio or video recording is being made. 11 Foreign and Commonwealth Office, International Protocol on the Documentation and Investigation of Sexual Violence in Conflict, 46 (2014). 26