Medico Legal at Ukraine
Ukraine's medico-legal system, primarily managed by the Ministry of Health, has undergone significant reforms and enhancements, especially in forensic science, to address the challenges posed by ongoing conflicts and to align with international standards.
Key Components of Ukraine's Medico-Legal System
1. National Scientific Center "Hon. Prof. M. S. Bokarius Forensic Science Institute" (NSC FSI)
Established in 1924, the NSC FSI serves as the central body for forensic examinations in Ukraine. It offers services in over 90 specialties, including complex and high-profile cases. The Institute operates branches in Kyiv, Poltava, Sumy, Luhansk, and Donetsk, and collaborates with educational institutions like the Department of Forensic Medicine and Medical Law at Kharkiv National Medical University.
2. Regional Forensic Medical Examination Bureaus
To streamline operations, four regional bureaus in Vinnitsa, Nikolaev, Chernihiv regions, and Kyiv have been integrated under the Ministry of Health's centralized network. This restructuring aims to enhance the efficiency of forensic services, especially in conflict-affected areas, by modernizing equipment and standardizing procedures.
3. International Support and Equipment Donations
Ukraine has received substantial international assistance to bolster its forensic capabilities:
European Union (EU): In December 2021, the EU provided ten mobile forensic laboratories equipped with forensic, ballistic, trassology, and biology kits, enhancing the National Police's ability to conduct thorough crime scene investigations across nine Ukrainian regions.
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP): In May 2024, the UNDP, with funding from Japan, supplied 26 Volkswagen Crafter vans and mobile DNA laboratories to the National Police's forensic units. These mobile units facilitate rapid DNA profiling and complex forensic investigations, even in challenging field conditions.
France: In May 2023, France donated a second mobile DNA-analysis laboratory to Ukraine's Ministry of Justice. This laboratory, managed by the forensic research institute in Dnipro, allows for swift genetic analysis of numerous biological samples, aiding in the identification of victims and evidence collection.
Netherlands: The Netherlands prepared a mobile forensic laboratory for the International Criminal Court's operations in Ukraine, enhancing the capacity to document and analyze evidence related to war crimes.
4. Capacity Building and Training
To further enhance forensic expertise, Ukrainian investigators have participated in study tours and training programs abroad. In October 2023, a group of 15 forensic investigators visited Japan to exchange practical knowledge and learn advanced forensic methods, strengthening their capabilities in evidence handling and analysis.
Summary
Ukraine's medico-legal system has made significant strides in modernizing forensic services through strategic restructuring and international collaboration. The integration of regional bureaus under the Ministry of Health, coupled with the acquisition of advanced forensic equipment and specialized training, has enhanced the efficiency and effectiveness of forensic investigations. These efforts are crucial for ensuring justice, especially in the context of ongoing conflicts and the need for accountability.
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