Naming the unknown of Fromelles: DNA profiling, ethics and the identification of First World War bodies

Abstract

This article considers the issues raised by the use of DNA profiling on the remains of the bodies of those lost during the battle of Fromelles in the First World War. In 2009, 250 sets of human remains, from Australian and British war dead, were excavated from the site. DNA profiles from the remains were matched with those of descendants and relatives who came forward for DNA profiling following public appeal. The process of identification raises questions surrounding the use of this technology for the identification of war dead. These issues include the role of DNA testing technologies in our understandings of the relationships between embodiment and identity; and the relevance of issues of consent, confidentiality and the duty of care for family members whose DNA has been shared. We conclude with observations about the range of moral and ethical issues that DNA technologies pose for the identification of war dead.