Forensic Science and Quality Management

Explores how global standards in forensic science can be applied across diverse and challenging contexts

The global move toward standardisation in forensic sciences promises reliability, transparency, and a shared professional language. Forensic Science and Quality Management examines how these aspirations intersect with the realities of working in politically, socially, and economically challenging environments. Through expert analysis and international case studies, the volume examines how rigorous standards can―and must―be adapted to function ethically and effectively in contexts marked by limited resources, instability, and humanitarian crises.

Contributions from internationally recognised experts and field practitioners emphasise that achieving quality in forensic science extends beyond procedural compliance―it requires balancing technical accuracy with ethical awareness, contextual understanding, and sensitivity to human rights. In-depth chapters examine the implementation of quality management frameworks in regions around the world, the adaptation of various international protocols, and the application of advanced technologies such as DNA analysis and artificial intelligence. By bringing together theory, practice, and lived experience, this collection challenges the notion that standardisation alone guarantees justice.

Illustrating how forensic professionals innovate within constraints while demonstrating resilience and integrity in the pursuit of human rights, victims’ dignity, and the fight against impunity. Forensic Science and Quality Management:

• Analyses how global forensic standards can be adapted to varied social, political, and economic environments
• Draws on real-world examples from Latin America, Africa, and other regions affected by conflict and limited resources
• Offers critical insight into the evolving relationship between standardisation, ethics, and justice ― recognising modern forensic science principles as first-order foundations for credibility and accountability
• Discusses the tension between accreditation and genuine institutional strengthening
• Highlights the role of forensic science in promoting accountability, human rights, respect for victims’ dignity, and the pursuit of transitional justice

Forensic Science and Quality Management: Addressing the Era of Standardisation in Challenging Environments is essential reading for forensic scientists, criminologists, criminalistics, legal professionals, transitional justice experts, political actors and human rights investigators working in both stable and complex environments. It is also a valuable text for postgraduate courses in forensic science, criminal justice, transitional justice and human rights law within degrees in law, forensic science, humanitarian actions, and social sciences.

Roberto C. Parra, A Peruvian forensic specialist with 25 years of professional experience, he combines scientific rigor and Quality Assurance with extensive work in challenging forensic environments to strengthen institutions. He is currently a member of the forensic team of the United Nations Joint Human Rights Office (UNJHRO) of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, contributing to transitional justice processes and the fight against impunity.

Allan G. Alvarez-Godoy, a Guatemalan forensic specialist with extensive international experience, he works for international organizations, where he applies scientific and technical expertise to the investigation of serious crimes. He has worked in challenging and high-risk environments, contributing to transitional justice and the fight against impunity, while strengthening institutions and promoting human rights in conflict and post-conflict contexts.