Using Forensic Anthropology to Investigate Mass Graves: Comparative Case Studies from Rwanda and Guatemala

Abstract

Excavation of mass graves can help in the aftermath of genocides by providing closure for surviving families and aiding in successful prosecution of criminals. In this article, I compare the methods used to investigate mass graves from cases in Rwanda and Guatemala. Anthropologists in Guatemala used excavations to provide closure for families who suffered through a 36-year governmental assault on the indigenous Mayan people. In contrast, Rwanda’s genocide on ethnic Tutsi compelled the UN to form an investigative team to use evidence collected to prosecute those whomthey deemed to have committed crimes against humanity. Comparing these two cases exemplifies how purpose affects exhumation, analysis, and resources; for example, Guatemalan investigators worked extensively with local peoples throughout investigations, while Rwandan investigators only used families to obtain legally defensible positive identificationIDs. In addition, Iwilladdress some of the issues with excavation of mass graves,including resource deficits, DNA analysis, and commingled remains.