Forensic DNA Databases in Hong Kong and China

Abstract

The primary focus of this article is on China and one of its special administrative regions, Hong Kong. First, a general introduction to Forensic DNA Typing will restate the rudiments on which the application of DNA technology in the realm of law enforcement and criminal justice is based. This background is necessary for the discussion on database design in the final part of the article. The Forensic DNA Databases and related legislative frameworks of China and Hong Kong will then be considered and the relevant scientific and legislative features contextualized. Finally, the article will explore two distinct features with regard to the database design of the Forensic DNA Databases of China and Hong Kong, namely the population size of DNA Databases and the possibilities for cross-border collaboration. The discussion here will be supplemented with references to related developments in BRICS countries as well as selected references and comparisons with jurisdictions having more developed Forensic DNA Databases, particularly that of the UK and the USA.