Roundtable: Protecting mass graves world-wide: what are barriers to standard or policy adoption?
Authors: Klinkner, M. and Biggins, D.
Dates: 5-8 May 2026
Publisher: RightsCon
Abstract:Published in 2020, the Bournemouth Protocol on Mass Grave Protection and Investigation is a set of standards for protecting and investigating mass grave sites worldwide. It combines legal rules and informed practices, covering the entire life cycle of a mass grave from discovery to post-investigation.
The protocol provides a comprehensive framework and universal standards for handling these sensitive sites respectfully and lawfully, supporting the pursuit of truth and justice for families and communities affected by conflict and gross human rights violations. [Link to the Protocol: https://issuu.com/bournemouthuniversity/docs/the_bournemouth_protocol_on_mass_grave_protection_? fr=sMjc3OTI0MjAyNzM] Since the Bournemouth Protocol on Mass Grave Protection and Investigation was published, new conflicts have erupted across the globe resulting in reported mass graves. The (often horrific) experiences gained, efforts made and challenges encountered from these new contexts provide important vantage points from which to interrogate the legal landscape, scientific standards and associated policy. As we work towards a revised version of the Bournemouth Protocol, we are keen to learn from participants what the barriers are that prevent awareness, acceptance and adoption of standards. What physical/digital format can ensure accessibility to such guidance and facilitate their operationalisation in contexts where capacity is sparse? This session presents the core tenets of the Bournemouth Protocol before then gleaning information from participants on how its utility can be improved.
Source: Manual