Researchers improve method for finding mass graves

A multi-disciplinary team of researchers commissioned by the International Commission on Missing Persons (ICMP) has detected geographic patterns associated with mass graves that will help find hidden graves in the future.

ICMP presented the findings of its study this morning at the site of one of the known - but as yet unexcavated - mass graves in eastern Bosnia that was used in the study.

By studying 16 different known mass graves sites in the area, the team of satellite imagery experts, geology experts and forensic archaeologists who visited Bosnia-Herzegovina in May found common characteristics that will help locate other grave sites.

Funded by donations from governments and other institutions, ICMP was created in 1996, following the G7 Summit in Lyon, France.

ICMP endeavors to secure the co-operation of governments and other authorities in locating and identifying persons missing as a result of armed conflicts, hostilities or violations of human rights and to assist governments or authorities in doing so.