Events

Past Event

Remembering 9/11: Ethical, Legal and Social Issues with Using DNA for Disaster Victim Identification

September 10, 2021
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
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Online

Event Description

Following the attack on the World Trade Center in New York City on September 11, 2001, investigators engaged in the greatest forensic challenge in the US and asked families for assistance to identify victims through DNA identification techniques. Two decades later, the use of DNA for victim identification in the context of national emergencies has dramatically expanded, creating challenges in the preservation of data for forensic investigation, obtaining familial consent and participation, ensuring transparency, and protecting human rights. In recognition of the 20th anniversary of 9/11, this ELSI Friday Forum explores lessons learned from the use of DNA for the identification of victims of disasters, emergencies, and atrocities and the commemoration of those whose lives are lost and the ethical, legal and social issues involved.

Event Speaker

Please visit the event webpage for speaker information.

Event Information: 

Free and open to the public; registration required. For more information, please visit the event webpage

Hosted by the Center for ELSI Resources and Analysis at Columbia University as part of the ELSI Friday Forum series.