Four Days Workshop Report on Capacity Building for Humanitarian Ethics in Forensic Investigation, Reporting, and Research Publication Dealing with Cadavers in the Indian Context
Nov 2, 2023
The four-day workshop on "Capacity Building for Humanitarian Ethics in Forensic
Investigation, Reporting, and Research Publication Dealing with Cadavers in the Indian
Context" was a resounding success. Organized by the Forensic Anthropology Unit, Department
of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, and Centre for Ethics at Yenepoya (Deemed to be
University), the event featured a comprehensive program aimed at enhancing participants'
understanding of humanitarian ethics for cadaver-related work.
On day One workshop began with 17 participants and five resource persons. The first day
covered various critical aspects of humanitarian ethics, including biomedical ethics, ethical
norms in disaster and research, and the impact of death on families and society. Participants
engaged in interactive case study deliberations, gaining practical insights into ethical
considerations. The second day saw increased enthusiasm with 18 participants and seven
resource persons. Topics included the humanitarian approach in research, ethical guidelines for
research involving the deceased, CIOMS guidelines in the Indian context, ethical issues in
research publication, ethics of health policy and law in humanitarian crises, and strategies for
ethical management of biological samples and personal data. Interactive sessions allowed
participants to apply their knowledge to real-life scenarios.
The final day featured 18 participants and four resource persons, focusing on academic
advocacy for respect for the dead in research, ethical challenges with unidentified dead bodies,
research integrity, publication ethics, and a thought-provoking film viewing and reflecting.
Participants also engaged in discussions on ethical considerations and the need for common
guidelines in research involving the use of the dead. The final segment of the workshop
included a valedictory session, feedbacks and a vote of thanks, recognizing the contributions
of all the resource persons and participants. The workshop successfully equipped participants
with a deeper understanding of humanitarian ethics in forensic work involving cadavers in the
Indian context. The workshop addressed legal, ethical, and practical challenges, providing
valuable insights and tools for ethical decision-making in their professional roles. The event
served as a vital platform for building capacity in forensic ethics, contributing to the ethical
advancement of the field of humanitarian forensics.
