The medical component in fact-finding missions.

Fact-finding missions (FFMs) are useful instruments in examining allegations of human rights violations. The United Nations Convention against Torture and other Cruel Inhuman or Degrading Treatment and the European Convention for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman and Degrading Treatment or Punishment include the possibility for FFMs. The role of the medical profession in FFMs is discussed, and it is recommended that doctors should be included in FFMs to document allegations of torture and other human rights abuses.