Mountaineering is a self-regulation sport functioning on the basis that mountaineers and climbers are truthful about their achievements.

It follows that mountaineers and climbers making claims to successful ascents should be believed unless there is a strong evidence to the contrary.

In their own interests, mountaineers and climbers are advised to gather as much evidence as possible to support their claim.

The UIAA recognises that where there is no conclusive evidence to support a claim, doubts may arise, but recommends that the consideration of any such doubt should take account of the principles outlined above.