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Femke Van Puymbrouck and Stijn Desmyter (in press)

Recommendations regarding the genetic analysis of human remains in the context of repatriation

Anthropologica et Præhistorica, 134:1-26.

Genetic analysis is known to be applied in many scientific fields. Within the repatriation of human remains, it could also potentially play a role. Although genetic analysis has its benefits, it also has its limitations, particularly when dealing with human remains from which only ancient DNA can be recovered and analyzed. As stakeholders with different competences and interests are involved in the decision-making process of repatriation cases, it is important to provide comprehensive information in advance. This document aims to provide information regarding the possibilities and challenges of DNA typing and interpretation within the scope of the repatriation of human remains. The relevance of genetic analysis in each particular repatriation case should be considered and discussed with all stakeholders before the start of the DNA analysis process. Genetic analysis can interfere in the repatriation process and should not be considered as a stand-alone technique. A strictly biological approach would ignore the complexity of identity and could undermine family histories. A multidisciplinary approach is always required. The interpretation of the obtained DNA results should thus be considered in the light of primary information (e.g. historical records, other analytical data, archaeological findings), if available. Moreover, the impact of DNA sampling on the human remains should be assessed. As results can be surprising and challenge previous assumptions, the possible outcome of genetic analysis and interpretation should also be clarified in advance. So even though it could be technically feasible, the implementation of genetic analysis in repatriation cases could be limited by the possible ethical, social and political outcome of the investigation. Genetic analysis can thus have a place in certain repatriation cases of human remains; however, its application should be widely discussed between different parties involved in the repatriation process. This document can serve as a guidance in the decision-making process and during the procedure of genetic analysis.
genetic analysis, human remains, ancient DNA, repatriation, recommendations
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Editor in Chief:
Dr. Anne Hauzeur
Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences
Vautierstraat 29
1000 Brussels, Belgium

ISSN 1377-5723 (printed version)
 



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