Evaluation of the ethical dimensions of forensic DNA databases

Applications of DNA databases, despite their vital importance to the judicial system, have sparked ethical debate for many years. The crimes for which DNA samples should be collected and the period for which they should be stored are all subject to ethical considerations, particularly regarding privacy, informed consent, data protection and overall ethical governance. The review covers issues such as privacy, confidentiality, informed consent, possible profiling errors, timelines for data sharing, international rules and public security in DNA databases. Recommendations based on literature are provided to address possible ethical issues. In this context, legal governance, transparency and accountability mechanisms are essential to prevent the misuse of DNA data in applications for DNA databases. It is stressed that public confidence will be boosted by DNA databases that will allow for the quick identification of offenders and the linking of related criminal events, thereby enhancing the value of forensic DNA databases in the justice system.