DNA RESOURCES
LIBARY
ACCESS OUR DNA RESOURCES
We are continuously expanding our library of accessible resources, which aid administrations in Africa and beyond, enabling them to develop and implement their own DNA policies effectively.
The Board hopes that by building onto this repository of knowledge it will serve as a valuable tool for policymakers, offering access to information, research findings, and best practices from various regions and disciplines. By leveraging these resources, regions can tailor their policies to address specific challenges, meet local needs, and promote sustainable forensic platforms and development.
Through this shared platform, we aim to foster global cooperation and support regions in their efforts to create comprehensive forensic platforms, facilitating an end-to-end process.
As a result of
an increased awareness of
the potential for DNA evidence
to help solve criminal cases,
the demand for DNA testing continues to grow nationwide.
Crime laboratories now process more DNA than ever before.
Policy provides
a framework to guide
government decisions such
as legislation and budget;
ensuring that the government is working toward a common goal. Although policy is not a law, law must be guided by current government policy, and it will
often identify laws needed
to achieve its goals.
Legislation refers
to the preparation and
enactment of laws by a
legislative body through its lawmaking process. A bill is a
draft, or tentative version, of what might become part of the
written law. A bill that is
enacted is called an
act or statute.
A DNA database
is a government database
of DNA profiles and/or
DNA samples (DNA Databank) which can be used by law enforcement agencies to identify suspects of crimes. These
databases are effective because
a majority of crimes are
committed by repeated
offenders.
AN EXAMPLE OF DNA LEGISLATION (SOUTH AFRICA)
DNA laws play a pivotal role in ensuring public safety, upholding the rule of law, and fostering trust in the criminal justice system. An example of a comprehensive DNA law in Africa is the Criminal Law (Forensic Procedures) Amendment Act 37 of 2013 (commonly referred to as the ‘DNA Act’) which was passed into law in South Africa on the 27 January 2014 - Read more here.
For a summary of the salient provisions of the DNA Act, click here
DNA REGULATIONS (PURPOSE AND EXAMPLE)
DNA Regulations serve as detailed guidelines that support and enforce the provisions of the DNA laws passed by the government. They provide specific instructions, procedures, and requirements necessary for the proper implementation and compliance with the respective laws. Regulations play a crucial role in ensuring consistency, clarity, and uniformity in the application of legislation, facilitating effective governance and the protection of rights for citizens and businesses alike. Click below to see an example of DNA regulations passed in South Africa, which support its DNA laws.
AN EXAMPLE OF A DNA POLICY DOCUMENT
A DNA policy provides a structured framework and guidelines for the effective implementation and enforcement of DNA laws. It outlines the objectives, procedures, and protocols for DNA collection, analysis, storage, and sharing. The policy ensures consistency, accuracy, and adherence to ethical standards in utilizing DNA evidence for investigations and criminal justice purposes. By setting clear rules and procedures, a DNA policy enhances public trust, safeguards individual rights, and strengthens the overall effectiveness of DNA laws in combating crime and promoting justice.
APPLY FOR A SELF FUNDED PHD
To Develop a Forensic DNA Legislative Framework and Policy for Africa
If you are seeking a research topic and a reputable academic institution to pursue a PhD, an excellent opportunity awaits through the collaboration between the Forensic DNA Policy Board: Africa (FDPBA) and Northumbria University.
The successful candidate will be required to develop a DNA legislative framework and policy document that will be presented to the African Union for review and adoption by AU member states. The research will contribute to the protection of public security, human rights, and privacy by providing guidelines for the collection, analysis, storage, use, and destruction of DNA samples/data.
Additionally, the research will enhance cross-border cooperation in criminal investigations by establishing a common DNA database exchange system, similar to the EU Prüm framework. Finally, the research will highlight the challenges and opportunities of implementing a legal framework and policy for the use of forensic DNA in Africa.
Eligibility and How to Apply:
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Academic excellence of the proposed student i.e. 2:1 (or equivalent GPA from no-UK universities [preference for 1st class honours]); or a Masters (preference for Merit or above)
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Appropriate IELTS score, if required
For further details of how to apply, entry requirements and the application form, click on below button.
HELP US BUILD OUR LIBRARY
Please feel free to share with us your recommendations or any relevant literature that we can include in our resource library. Your valuable contributions will help enrich our collection and further empower others with valuable knowledge and insights.
