Authors: Claude Roux, et al

DFRWS APAC 2022

Abstract

While forensic science is usually seen as a mainstay of the criminal justice system, its effectiveness and reliability have been consistently challenged over at least the last decade. Several papers and commentaries recently identified a fundamental gap that might be a root cause for many of the challenges. They argued that reclaiming forensic science and refocusing on its foundation, including a shared understanding and broad acceptance of its essence, purpose, and fundamental principles, is necessary. The most recent and significant effort in this area is the Sydney Declaration, which attempts to define forensic science through its foundational basis, beyond organizations, techniques or protocols [1,2]. From the outset, this means that the principles expressed in the Sydney Declaration should be applicable across all forensic science endeavours, including digital forensic science.

It is, however, necessary to engage with the digital forensic science community to gather feedback essential for the broader acceptance and implementation of these principles.

Participants in this practical workshop will reflect on the relationship and applicability of these principles with digital forensic science, by examining the background to the declaration, listening to a panel session providing leading perspectives, and participating in working groups examining the declaration’s applicability to their work.

References

  1. Roux, C., Bucht, R., Crispino, F., De Forest, P., Lennard, C., Margot, P., Miranda M. D., NicDaeid, N., Ribaux, O., Ross, A., Willis, S. (2022). The Sydney Declaration – Revisiting the Essence of Forensic Science through its Fundamental Principles, Forensic Science International 332, 111182, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.forsciint.2022.111182
  2. https://iafs2023.com.au/sydney-declaration/

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