Biometrics to Necrometrics: What the Dead Can Tell us About War

Abstract This paper discusses the use of biometrics on the dead of conflict from a human security perspective. Human security interprets conflict and the effects of conflict from a human point of view. Data extracted from the bodies of the dead aids in providing valuable information to assess the human security situation and are therefore vitally important. This data collection process also involves legal considerations. Which obligations does international law set on the use of metrics from the dead in conflict? The project Iraq Body Count demonstrates in clear terms the importance of taking the human measure into account.