- info@migrant-dvi.eu
- info@migrant-dvi.eu
Training Programme
This section works as an open learning hub where you can directly access essential resources from the MDVI COST Action. Our goal is to promote knowledge exchange by providing free access to a varied library of training resources, ranging from training event information, course materials, and webinar recordings, all designed to help you acquire new information and skills applicable to your work.
Physical evidence in Migrant Identification Training at University of Crete
AI training in collaboration with University of A Coruna and Panacea Coop.
Ethics training at Masaryk University and online.
Craniofacial Identification Training & Networking Event at Face Lab, Liverpool John Moores University (UK)
Past training Events
Download the training schedules
Past Webinar Series
Webinars
12:52
46:12
1:23:33
1:28:54
37:14
Dr. Reuben Moreton from Reli Research
Speaker Bio:
Filippo Furri is an anthropologist, he works on migrations (Analysis of European migration policies with Migreurop, local reception practices with Form sea to City platform) and is a fellow at the Convergences migrations institute in Paris.
Since 2013, he has been working on dead and missing persons in migration, with a focus on the development of family agency in searches and identification practices.
He has participated in the MECMI (deaths in migration context) and MOCOMI (deaths in migration during the COVID pandemic) programs; he collaborates with civil society actors (Boats4People, LAst Rights, Euromed Rights) and worked as a consultant for the ICRC forensic unit in Paris. Filippo is the author of “Practices For Tracing And Identifying Missing And Deceased Migrants In North Africa”.
Dr. Jan Bikker is the Chairman and Founder of the Platform for Transnational Forensic Assistance/Forensic Missing Migrant Initiative aiming to promote transnational operational coordination and development of policies, forensic best practices, procedures and protocols at national and European level with particular focus on the management of missing migrants and unidentified bodies believed to be related to migration.
Professor Yasemin Balcı, a leading expert in forensic medicine, presented her research on identifying individuals who die during migration and discussed the associated challenges in Turkey.
Key Points from the Presentation
- Legal Processes for Migrant Deaths: When a foreigner dies in Turkey, authorities are required to report the death to the deceased’s consulate. This involves preparing documentation like autopsy reports and details about their belongings. If there are agreements with specific countries, such as Syria, the bodies can be sent back home. Otherwise, if unclaimed, local municipalities take care of the burial.
- Statistics on Migrant Deaths: Between 2013 and 2018, a significant number of migrant deaths were due to drowning while trying to cross into Europe, predominantly involving citizens from Iraq and Syria. Out of 160 cases examined, 158 victims had drowned, with many being young individuals, highlighting the dangers faced during such journeys.
- Criminal Cases and Smuggling Networks: Approximately 15,000 cases of migrant smuggling were presented to courts, resulting in a high conviction rate. This illustrates the extensive networks involved in facilitating irregular migration across borders.
- Identification Methods: Law enforcement takes fingerprints and photographs of living migrants, storing this information in a shared system. However, complications arise when migrants provide false identities, making it challenging to confirm their origins and identities.
- International Cooperation: Turkey, situated at a crucial transit point for migrants, faces many challenges due to wars, epidemics, and economic issues. A coordinated international approach is essential to address the root causes of migration and improve data sharing among countries.
- Technological Solutions and Ethical Concerns: Technology, including Artificial Intelligence, can play a significant role in processing identification data. However, ethical issues surrounding data privacy must be carefully managed.
In summary, Professor Balcı emphasised the complexity of migrant deaths and identification, advocating for improved collaboration, standardisation in data management, and a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges faced by migrants.
