Dr. Derek Congram - Forensic Anthropologist & Editor of Missing Persons

In this episode of Footnotes on Crime, we are joined by Derek Congram, forensic archaeologist, board certified forensic anthropologist, and co editor of Missing Persons: Multidisciplinary Perspectives on the Disappeared.With experience working across more than thirty countries, Dr. Congram has spent decades investigating missing persons cases in conflict zones and humanitarian contexts, combining science, ethics, and advocacy in the pursuit of truth and dignity for families of the disappeared.About the EpisodeWhat does it mean to search for the missing in the aftermath of conflict and violence?In this deeply insightful conversation, Dr. Derek Congram reflects on his work in human rights investigations across the world, discussing the realities of forensic recovery, identification, and the emotional weight carried by families searching for answers.Drawing on years of experience working with organisations including the United Nations, the International Criminal Court, and the International Committee of the Red Cross, he explores the intersection of forensic science, humanitarian investigation, and professional ethics.Science, Human Rights, and RecoveryDr. Congram’s work highlights how forensic anthropology can play a vital role not only in judicial investigations, but also in restoring dignity to those who have disappeared and providing answers to loved ones left behind.In this episode, he discusses the ethical challenges of working in conflict zones, the importance of empathy in forensic investigation, and the evolving role of science in human rights work.Our conversation is thoughtful, powerful, and deeply human, examining how science and compassion can work together in the pursuit of justice and recovery. One not to be missed.What We CoverThe ethics of forensic investigation in conflict zonesHuman rights investigations and disappeared persons casesThe role of science and empathy in forensic identificationChallenges in humanitarian and judicial recovery operationsInnovations in forensic anthropology and archaeologySupporting families searching for answers and closureListen Now🎧 Tune in to hear Dr. Derek Congram’s insights and experiences on Footnotes on Crime. Purchase the book (Amazon Links)Missing Persons: Multidisciplinary Perspectives on the DisappearedPaperback (Amazon) - https://amzn.to/4uOgT2DVisit www.footnotesoncrime.com for more information about the podcast, or to sign up to our newsletter and become one of our Footprints.Sign up to Audible* - Select 1 audiobook a month and enjoy unlimited podcasts with Audible Standard at £5.99 per month- https://amzn.to/3OewMzASign up to Riverside FM** - Riverside is the AI-powered platform that lets you record, edit, repurpose, and distribute studio-quality content as easily as if you had a crew behind you. Sign up today - https://riverside.sjv.io/9VVebW*Commission paid by Amazon**Commission paid by Riverside FM / Impact