Forensic use of Genetic Information under Criminal Investigation and Prosecution in Rwanda: Is there any Ethical and Genetic Privacy Violation?

Authors:

Thierry MB*

Volume 2, Issue 3

Abstract

The advancement of science and technology mainly genetic engineering is extensively remarkable in the justice system. The development of forensic science particularly genetic based evidence (DNA) brought great contribution in various field of justice chain. The use of genetic information known as (DNA) information in justice has a great impact on investigation and prosecution of criminals. However, its use has created two major conflicts between public and private interests. The former deals with safeguarding justice by defending the interest of the public through ensuring security and public order and the latter intends to protect fundamental human rights such as right to genetic privacy, right against self-incrimination, autonomy of the body, human dignity to name a few. Although, forensic use of genetic data has a remarkable positive impact on justice system, it has also created a threat to some of human rights such as genetic privacy. The paper therefore explores the impact of the use of genetic information on fundamental human rights in administration of justice examining whether the use of genetic information is or not an antithesis to the fundamental rights of genetic privacy, human dignity and integrity of the body and ethical principles.

Keywords:

DNA Data; Genetic Information; Right to Genetic Privacy; Integrity of the Human Body; Human Dignity; Respect for Persons; Informed Consent

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