At least 200 political killings and over 200 enforced disappearances have reportedly occurred in the Philippines since 2001. Few effective investigations have been conducted and the arrest, prosecution and conviction of those responsible are rare. Many cases are never brought to court due to a lack of evidence, mostly because witnesses fear reprisals. Amnesty International believes that comprehensive investigations and other measures, including the effective protection of witnesses, are essential to break the chain of impunity.
