Define
Set the research question, audience, scope and terms of reference.
Research and Evidence Methodology
The common research standard for CRM records, editorial summaries, country information, legal analysis and independent reports.
Purpose
CRM does not treat all publicly available information as equally reliable. We assess source proximity, independence, timing, possible bias, corroboration and the risks of publication.
Six-stage process
Search
Record the search period, terms, coverage and source types.
Assess
Examine proximity, independence, expertise, motive and potential bias.
Corroborate
Compare dates, locations, identities, procedures and material facts.
Review
Apply factual, editorial, legal and safety review where appropriate.
Version
Identify publication date, version, limitations and corrections.
Content labels
CRM Original ResearchCountry InformationExternal Authoritative ReportCRM Editorial SummaryLegal AnalysisVerified RecordPreliminary RecordRepublished CommentaryUnofficial Translation
Each item should identify the original publisher or author, CRM’s editorial responsibility, verification limits and whether it represents an institutional position.
Confidence language
Findings and confidence
CRM uses controlled language including confirmed, highly likely, available evidence indicates, available evidence suggests, unable to determine and contested.
Ethics & safety
Do no harm
Sensitive material is not made public merely because it has been submitted. Publication considers consent, data minimisation, anonymisation and retaliation risk.
Challenge our work
Individuals and institutions may submit evidence-based corrections or methodological concerns.