MDVI: The need for education and training

The aim of my doctoral research was to examine the role of forensic science in identifying missing migrants in Europe. I took a qualitative approach and conducted interviews were with key stakeholders across the continent from forensic science, international organisations, academia, civil society and policing. To make progress in identifying missing migrants, I argue that a truly interdisciplinary approach is necessary. This process must balance scientific and non-scientific contributions, including contextual information, and establish trust between contributors. Drawing on my research findings and the wider literature, I propose the establishment of the European Migrant Identification Centre (MIC) to coordinate efforts on the forensic identification of missing migrants in Europe. The MDVI COST Action fulfils several of the functions of the proposed MIC. Given my background in education and the clear need for work in this area, I am part of Working Group 4 (WG4): Continued Professional Development. This presentation will highlight some of the key findings from my research with particular relevance to the work of WG4. I argue that educational projects relating to the forensic identification of missing migrants need to take place on three levels. • Internal education among MIC divisions/ COST working groups and key stakeholders about each other’s roles, responsibilities and requirements. • Education programmes with migrant communities which would allow the opportunity for families to learn about forensic methods and the identification processes so that they can make a truly informed decision about whether and how they participate • External education work to publicise and raise awareness of the issue of migrant deaths and the lack of identifications, particularly the impact on families. In the presentation I will outline how the COST Action (in particular WG4) could work to address these education and training requirements.