Alyna Khan (Public Health Genetics)

Biometric data has been collected on immigrants and refugees for decades. Only recently have governments begun to implement DNA testing as a part of the immigration and refugee processing system. Motivations for this include reuniting family members, expediting the immigration process, identifying cases of human trafficking, and denying entry to potential criminals and terrorists. However, there are major concerns around issues of informed consent, privacy, discrimination, and human rights. In this salon, we will discuss the use of DNA as a tool for identification at the border, evaluate current policy on DNA testing of immigrants and refugees, and share ideas on the benefits and consequences of this practice.

Genomics Salon is an open forum for learning and discussion on issues at the intersection of science and society.