But it is moral satisfaction which is the central component of reparation and the element often seen as most important by survivors. This might take a variety of forms but must include measures taken by the state to investigate the facts, acknowledge the truth, and bringing perpetrators to justice. Commemorations and other ways of paying tribute to the dead and those who suffered will also be considered important. For some, the opportunity to tell their story has therapeutic value. The experiences of societies trying to come to terms with abuses of a prior regime show that justice will not be seen to be done without these elements.
Nevertheless money can be important in restoring survivors' way of life.
Compensation should cover pain and suffering as well as material damage, restitution of property and other loss and entitlements. Consideration should also be given for payment of punitive damages which will act as a deterrent. Procedures for claiming compensation must be accessible, speedy, enforceable and not subject to statutes of limitation. The international community as a whole has an important role in providing a remedy to individuals, and ensuring implementation of the right to reparation at national level. This role can be fulfilled through inter-state mechanisms, access by individuals to international mechanisms for the protection of human rights and international humanitarian law, and also the exercise by states of universal jurisdiction over alleged perpetrators who are not brought to justice in their own state.