Given the traumatic effects of torture, evidence may be kept concealed by survivors before being disclosed by them much later. The newly disclosed evidence could be the result of a change in government or government policy which can lead to an uncovering of the actions of their predecessors. Mountains of evidence can surface through various types of truth and reconciliation commissions which are working to uncover past abuses as part of a national healing process. Additionally, allegations might come to light at different stages of a legal process, even at quite late stages. There have also been cases when acknowledgement of torture practices appeared in interviews and publications of retired officials who had been responsible for acts of torture or other ill-treatment earlier in their lives.