Project 057: Strengthening crime scene forensics capabilities in investigating CBRN incidents in the South East and Eastern Europe region

Context

Protection of the population against the harmful impact of CBRN substances, either being released by malevolent/terrorist actions or through accidents or natural hazards is becoming an increasingly important subject requiring the governments' attention in the EU and internationally. Numerous actions by sovereign states as well as international organizations have been planned and are implemented to enhance security, increase barriers to terrorist groups' gaining access to material but also to strengthen the legal framework including export control and other measures. In many developed countries CBRN preparedness is implemented as a matter of security arrangements reflecting resources available to various national agencies and bodies. In developing countries the situation is more challenging: While many are committed and would like to enhance national and with this contribute to international security, resources and expertise might not be available.

Overall objective

To strengthen forensic capabilities for CBRN materials and incidents in all participating Partner countries.

Specific objectives

1. To develop a training system on forensic investigations in CBRN-related cases;
2. To foster the establishment of networks of CBRN and forensics-related institutions and networks of forensics experts dealing with CBRN-related investigations at the sub-regional level.

Activities

1. Provide training on a broad field of expertise with respect to CBRN forensics by world-class forensics investigators;
2. Develop and execute exercises to test both equipment and skills of the trained forensic experts;
3. Organise study visits to relevant national and international bodies in CBRN forensics.

Achievements

• Development of a training system for forensic investigation in CBRN-related cases;
• Fostered the establishment of networks of CBRN and forensics-related institutions and networks of forensics experts dealing with investigations at the sub-regional level;
• Some Partner countries developed and integrated SOPs in the field of CBRN forensics at the governmental and ministerial levels, which will allow countries to readily deploy them in the future;
• Several partner countries integrated training courses developed during the project as part of their training curricula within their respective Police Academies.