DNA Profiling in Human Trafficking and Missing Persons Cases: Enhancing Victim-Centric Investigations

Abstract

Human trafficking and enforced disappearance are global problems of alarming scale. Millions are exploited or go missing each year, yet relatively few cases of human trafficking are prosecuted, and most victims remain unidentified(Katsanis et al., 2015)  Families of missing persons endure years of uncertainty and distress, unable to obtain death certificates or justice(I-Familia, n.d.) . DNA profiling has emerged as the most powerful tool for human identification, accepted worldwide in criminal justice. It can establish identity and familial relationships to support victim identification, family reunification and prosecution of traffickers(Palmbach et al., 2014)  . For example, NGOs like DNA-ProKids have used DNA matching to reunite missing or illegally adopted children with their parents, striving to create a global victim database . Yet the use of DNA in trafficking cases raises complex legal, procedural and ethical issues. This paper critically examines the legal frameworks and investigative mechanisms for DNA profiling in trafficking and missing persons cases, from a victim-centric perspective. We analyse India’s emerging laws (the DNA Technology Regulation Bill and the Criminal Procedure (Identification) Act 2022) alongside international instruments (e.g. the UN Palermo Protocol) and practices in other jurisdictions (EU, USA, selected Global South), identifying gaps and proposing reforms. The aim is to ensure DNA technology is harnessed to help victims, with robust safeguards for their rights.