What’s Next for Investigative Genetic Genealogy? Developing a Framework for Best Practice Use

Forensic/Investigative Genetic Genealogy (F/IGG) offers a powerful yet evolving capability for human identification, with its use by law enforcement having far-reaching implications for the criminal justice system internationally. While forensic genetics and law enforcement intelligence/investigations have developed their own best practice guidelines and, in some cases, standards and oversight, these still have to be developed for F/IGG. The combination of F/IGG with other forensic disciplines presents further challenges, perhaps requiring the development of a master set of ‘best practices’.

To determine how F/IGG should continue to evolve, it is necessary to contextualise its capabilities within forensic, law enforcement and genealogical frameworks. Existing interim guidelines provide the basis for further discussion and the development of policy and procedures for use of F/IGG, along with considerations for its technical, legal, ethical and scientific validation.

The evolving capabilities of FGG will be explored in relation to the status of other forensic disciplines with respect to quality assurance and operational use.  This will include the feasibility of adapting proficiency testing programs to the new field of F/IGG similar to those used in other areas of forensic science.[1]

[1] ISO/IEC 17025:2017, General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories, incorporated into accreditation programs such as American National Standards Institute National Accreditation Board (ANAB) and National Association of Testing Authorities, Australia (NATA).