A/HRC/44/47 97. The victims of corruption are an integral part of the process. As an essential element of the principles of participation, transparency and non-discrimination, they must be heard at the investigation and trial stages and provided with appropriate forms of reparation. 98. Human rights defenders tend to be key players in pushing for investigations into corruption cases, which has often led to their becoming targets for violence. Particular attention and, where appropriate, protective measures, should be put in place for them in order to prevent reprisals for reporting acts of corruption. 16 GE.20-04343