Gathering and disseminating information is essential to make sure everyone is safe before, during, and after a protest.

Carrying out monitoring and documentation which leads to making impartial information about the protest and any abuses which took place publicly available, is a key strategy for maintaining a space for free assembly and association, and the right to protest. It helps the public to learn about the demands and causes that motivate the protest, and can be used to call those responsible to account in the case of abuses.

Through your impartial monitoring and documentation, you can work to increase tolerance and acceptance of the right to protest among State authorities and society in general. Furthermore, monitoring and documentation can have the effect of deterring attacks against protesters, since those responsible may have their actions publicized and be held responsible before the law as a result.

While there are some technical skills which are helpful in monitoring and documentation, no professional experience is required. However, in order for monitoring and documentation to be truly effective, you must ensure the accuracy and impartiality of your information.

The impact of your work depends largely on how you conduct yourself and the reliability of the information you gather. Conduct yourself with independence, transparency, and integrity in order to build trust and respect among all actors for your work. The police should facilitate the work of monitors and media alike before, during, and after a protest.

Gathering firsthand and accurate information is crucial. The impact of your work depends on how you conduct yourself and how reliable is the information provided. Conduct yourself with independence, transparency, and integrity at all time – it will build trust with affinity groups and, depending on the contexts, it might provide a strong stand before the police and other authorities.