Traceability is our benchmark: every published item carries its source, reference number and version. We keep fact, memory and analysis distinct and never conflate them.
Oral accounts are cross-checked against archival documents; material that cannot be verified is marked as “under examination” or is not published.
We do not rely on unverified single sources for conclusions, and we do not trim sources to fit a conclusion.
2. Dignity of Survivors
No sensationalism, no voyeurism, no speculation: accounts of victimisation are kept to what is necessary; details are not amplified for effect.
Anonymous by default: identities, testimonies and family information are published only with verifiable authorisation and a separate risk assessment.
Preventing secondary harm: titles, summaries and image alternative text are reviewed too — these can also disclose identity.
We respect the narrators’ right to interpret their own experience: how their account is used and presented stays within the scope they authorise.
3. Informed Consent
Publication of oral history and personal material requires all three: explicit authorisation, anonymity and risk review, and confirmation of rights. If any is missing, the material remains internal until conditions are met.
Authorisation may be withdrawn; after withdrawal identity fields are anonymised and only a minimal reference number and audit record remain.
Narrators may stop an interview or a submission at any time, without giving reasons.
4. Use of the Archive
Tiered access: the digital archive applies four access levels (L0–L3; see the separate policy note), following the principle of protection first and progressive release.
Minimum necessary: we do not collect sensitive information unrelated to the purpose; access to L2 material requires identity, affiliation and purpose, and is time-limited after approval.
Audit trail: access and download records are retained for security and traceability.
Refused uses: we do not accept use of our material for sensationalism, personal attack, commercial marketing, or purposes unrelated to historical research.
5. Our Self-restraint
We do not lower methodological or ethical standards because of time pressure, and we do not relax authorisation review because material is scarce.