UNITAD and Iraq: Working Cooperatively to Build a Modern Forensic Capacity in Iraq

Since its establishment, the Team has worked closely with the competent Iraqi authorities to modernize its forensic analysis processes related to ISIL (Da’esh) crimes. Through this collaboration, a comprehensive strategy was implemented, focusing on enhancing the capacity of these authorities by equipping them with state-of-the-art tools and expertise. This support, which amounted to over USD 2.4 million, included the provision of advanced analytical equipment, digital forensic laboratories, and specialized tools, equipment and consumables for the documentation and analysis of mass graves, digital devices, and other forensic evidence.

Part of this cooperation resulted in the excavation of 68 mass graves, the recovery of more than 900 victims, and the collection of physical evidence from these sites crucial to supporting accountability efforts. The contribution of the Team included the provision of some of the most advanced forensic software, hardware and training available to MGD and MLD, including a customized Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) solution with the capability to enable DNA sample matching, and a FARO ScanArm digitizing solution to capture complex forensic anthropological data in 3D. 

Implementation of the strategy jointly also resulted in digital forensic laboratories being established at four Iraqi criminal courts, facilitated by the donation of equipment and software including all-in-one digital forensic software designed to extract, decode, and analyze data. This enabled the capacity of Iraqi experts trained by the Team to acquire, manage and verify digital evidence from a significant number of digital devices seized from ISIL (Da’esh) by these authorities and beyond.

During the conduct of these activities, forensic specialists on the Team provided technical assistance, including the provision of expert advice and analysis, to their Iraqi counterparts in fields such as forensic archaeology, forensic anthropology, satellite image analysis, geo-spatial analysis, open-source intelligence, and digital forensics. This assistance has facilitated the ability of these counterparts to employ modern forensic methodologies when undertaking evidence analysis, victim recovery, and victim identification.

Over the last number of months, the Team has focused on ensuring that its contribution and the progress made by these counterparts will be sustained beyond the mandate. Yet, their work is not complete. Support from the international community will remain critical going forward, so that accountability for the crimes of ISIL (Da’esh) and hopes of survivors and victim families can be realized.