Management Of A National Dna Fingerprinting Database In The Kingdom Of Saudi Arabia: A Proposed Model
Auteurs : Alobaidi Rana . Al-youbi Layla .
Résumé
Recent decades have witnessed significant social and technological changes that have transformed law enforcement and crime management methods. These technological changes have provided offenders with unprecedented capabilities for mobility and concealment of their identities. Yet they have also granted the police innovative means of identifying and targeting them. While offenders do leave traces related to their movements and interactions, these are often disparate and fragmented, maintained by different police forces on multiple security systems, which compromises their effectiveness. From this, the study problem emerged: to highlight DNA fingerprinting as scientific tool that provides human genetic characteristics and represents an individual’s biological identity in a unique, non-repeatable manner. Nevertheless, reliance on DNA fingerprinting is still delayed in some cases that could be solved earlier. The study’s primary objective is to analyze the management of a national DNA fingerprinting database in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, proposing a model for such a database. This model draws on leading international experiences of the United States and the United Kingdom, as well as regional models from Algeria and Kuwait. To underscore the study problem, an online questionnaire was used to conduct an exploratory study with a sample of 90 experts in law enforcement, health and life sciences, and R&D sectors. The results showed that 98% of participants support the establishment of a national DNA fingerprinting database under governmental supervision. To achieve the main objective of the study, a checklist was prepared to analyze several Arab and foreign models in terms of data collection, storage, organization, analysis, usage, sharing, and protection. A multiple case study methodology was applied to four international DNA fingerprinting databases to evaluate the fundamental elements for building an integrated system based on an analysis of scientific literature related to DNA databases. The study’s findings showed that a national DNA fingerprinting database would contribute to solving criminal cases swiftly and efficiently, support precision health and scientific research, and harness modern tools for reinforcing the legal system. However, the study also identified certain obstacles, such as financial, technical, and trained personnel challenges. In light of the findings, the study recommends developing clear legislation to regulate the management of DNA data, enhancing cross-sector collaboration, investing in advanced infrastructure and encryption, and launching public awareness campaigns to boost public trust and support. In conclusion, the proposed model represents a strategic step toward enhancing national security and improving public health, while promoting sustainable development and scientific research.
Mots clés
DNA fingerprinting Database ; DNA Fingerprint ; DNA ; National Database ; Data Management
