eyeWitness

Every day around the world, human rights defenders, investigators, journalists, and ordinary citizens capture photos and video of atrocities committed by violent and oppressive states and groups. eyeWitness provides these individuals with a tool to increase the impact of the footage they collect by ensuring the images can be authenticated and, therefore, used in investigations or trials. With the eyeWitness mobile camera app, users can capture photos or videos with embedded metadata showing where and when the image was taken and verifying that the image has not been altered. The images and accompanying verification data are encrypted and stored in a secure gallery within the app. The user then submits this information directly from the app to a storage database maintained by the eyeWitness organisation, creating a trusted chain of custody. The eyeWitness storage database functions as a virtual evidence locker, safeguarding the original, encrypted footage for future legal proceedings. Users retain the ability to upload the now verifiable footage to social media or other outlets. eyeWitness will become an advocate for the relevant footage it receives, ensuring it is used to promote accountability for the atrocities filmed. Behind eyeWitness is an expert legal team who will analyse the received images and identify the appropriate authorities, including international, regional, or national courts, to investigate further. In some cases, eyeWitness will bring situations to the attention of the media or other advocacy organisations to prompt international action. eyeWitness offers a solution to the evidentiary challenges of mobile phone footage. The eyeWitness mobile app, virtual evidence locker, and backing from a team of legal experts, will empower the courageous individuals, who are capturing footage, with the ability to use these images to bring to justice those who have committed the most serious international atrocity crimes.