(The Role of Forensic Science in Uncovering Human Trafficking Networks (Asst. Lect. Raed Jawad Kazem

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Human trafficking is considered one of the most serious contemporary organized crimes, due to its transnational nature and its reliance on concealment and the systematic exploitation of victims. Traditional methods of proof often fail to uncover this type of crime because of victims’ silence or their subjection to psychological and material coercion. This study aims to demonstrate the pivotal role played by forensic sciences in uncovering human trafficking networks through the analysis of physical, digital, and medical evidence, and to clarify their impact on strengthening criminal justice and protecting human rights. The study concludes that forensic evidence constitutes a decisive and objective tool in dismantling criminal structures and ensuring a fair trial, while emphasizing the need to develop technical capacities and enhance international cooperation in this field. Keywords: Human trafficking – Forensic science – Forensic evidence – Human rights – Organized crime Introduction The contemporary world is witnessing a noticeable rise in human trafficking crimes, which take various forms, including sexual exploitation, forced labor, and organ trafficking. This crime is characterized by its hidden nature and its reliance on silence and coercion, making its detection and proof a real challenge for criminal justice systems. In this context, forensic sciences emerge as a scientific tool capable of transforming silent traces into evidence that speaks the truth, thereby contributing to the identification of perpetrators and ensuring their legal accountability. First: The Legal Nature of the Crime of Human Trafficking Human trafficking is classified as a serious crime that violates human dignity and is governed by an international legal framework, most notably the Palermo Protocol supplementing the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime. The danger of this crime lies in the fact that it does not target the victim alone, but also undermines trust in the legal system and fuels the economy of organized crime. Second: The Problem of Proof in Human Trafficking Crimes Judicial authorities face major difficulties in proving human trafficking crimes due to: Victims’ fear of retaliation or deportation The absence of direct witnesses The complexity of criminal chains and the multiplicity of actors involved Therefore, reliance on human testimony alone becomes insufficient, which necessitates recourse to forensic evidence as an objective means of proof. Third: The Role of Forensic Sciences in Uncovering the Crime Forensic sciences contribute to uncovering human trafficking crimes through several fields, most notably: Forensic medicine: Establishing evidence of violence, sexual exploitation, forced labor, and ill-treatment, which constitute scientific indicators of the occurrence of the crime. Physical evidence: Such as fingerprints, restraint marks, and tools used in detention or illicit transportation. Digital evidence: Analyzing mobile phones, social media, and electronic transactions to identify patterns of communication and financing among members of the criminal network. Fourth: Forensic Evidence and Ensuring a Fair Trial Reliance on forensic evidence contributes to: Reducing dependence on coerced confessions Strengthening the presumption of innocence Protecting victims from re-victimization during investigations Achieving a balance between combating crime and respecting human rights Thus, forensic sciences become a tool for protecting justice, not merely a means of securing convictions. Fifth: Practical Challenges Despite the great importance of forensic evidence, its effectiveness faces several challenges, most notably: Weak forensic infrastructure in some countries Shortages of specialized personnel Limited international cooperation in the exchange of evidence This calls for the development of legislation, enhanced training, and the expansion of international cooperation frameworks. Conclusion This study confirms that forensic sciences represent a cornerstone in uncovering human trafficking crimes, especially in light of victims’ silence and the complexity of criminal structures. When voices are unable to speak, silent evidence assumes the task of revealing the truth, thereby strengthening criminal justice and protecting human dignity. Accordingly, investment in forensic sciences is not merely a technical option, but a legal and ethical necessity to confront one of the most dangerous crimes of our time. Al-Mustaqbal University, the first university in Iraq