Developing strategies for using DNA data to assist family reunifications across child development stages

PROJECT NARRATIVE No protocol exists for use of living children’s DNA to reunify families separated due to disasters, armed conflict, or migration, despite DNA data being a powerful biometric tool for determining both identity and kinship that meets the needs of pre-verbal children to facilitate safe and prompt reunification of families. This study examines the existing and historic scenarios in which DNA data are or have been used in humanitarian contexts involving children and incorporates key voices to inform a consent protocol for children’s DNA use for reunification. Project findings will guide deeper research on best practices for children’s DNA data use and can immediately inform protocols and policies vital to structuring an ethically sound DNA reunification response that can be activated quickly so that no child remains needlessly separated because they cannot be identified.