Humanitarian Forensics is a specialized branch of forensic science that plays a critical role in situations involving mass disasters, armed conflicts, and other humanitarian crises. It involves the application of forensic principles and techniques to identify deceased individuals, determine causes of death, and provide crucial evidence for legal and human rights purposes. This field aims to bring dignity to the dead, offer closure to families, and support justice and accountability.
Humanitarian forensic experts often work in challenging environments, collaborating with international organizations, government bodies, and non-governmental organizations to ensure that the identification and documentation of human remains are conducted ethically and accurately. Beyond identification, humanitarian forensics also helps preserve evidence that may be vital in war crime investigations or for historical records. This field embodies a unique intersection of science, law, and humanity, emphasizing respect, compassion, and the pursuit of truth in the face of tragedy.