We are delighted to announce the publication of the DISSECT project’s latest book: Questions of Evidence in the UN Human Rights Treaty Bodies’ Individual Communications Procedure, edited by Deborah Casalin (University of Antwerp), Marie-Bénédicte Dembour (Ghent University), and Cornelia Klocker (Ghent University).
This volume is the first in-depth analysis of the evidentiary regimes developed within the individual complaints procedures of the eight UN human rights treaty bodies (UNTBs) .
About the Book
Eight United Nations human rights treaty bodies (UNTBs) can currently examine ‘communications’ (complaints) from individuals against states. This edited collection examines the evidentiary regimes developed within this procedure. Nine case studies underscore the weak evidentiary basis of the UNTB decisions and the importance of addressing this issue, while the final chapter offers a set of practical recommendations.
Grounded in academic research and legal practice, the volume incorporates doctrinal, critical, socio-legal, and anthropological perspectives. It provides an authoritative reference on UNTBs, whilst aiming at contributing to the strengthening of their evidentiary norms and practices.
Praise for the Book
“By drawing attention to the crucial role of evidence before United Nations human rights mechanisms, this volume of insightful essays allows readers to look with fresh eyes at a much-neglected aspect of international human rights law.” — Frans Viljoen, Professor of International Human Rights Law, University of Pretoria
“This timely and precious volume will give an added impetus to the treaty body harmonisation process… it will help bring the treaty bodies closer together to hone their evidentiary regimes and deliver accessible, affordable, accountable, adaptable and quality justice.” — Hilary Gbedemah, Rector, Law Institute (Ghana); CEDAW member (2013–2024); Chair of Chairs (2019–2020)
Digital Open Access
The digital edition of the book is now available Open Access on Cambridge Core, free to read and download. You can access it here: 10.1017/9781009639231
Print Edition: Coming Soon
The paperback print edition (ISBN: 9781009639217, 285 pages) will be published in May 2026 and is available for pre-order now from Cambridge University Press and major booksellers.