IFSA stands for the International Forensic Strategic Alliance. IFSA is a partnership between the regional networks of operational forensic laboratories including:

• the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors (ASCLD)
• the European Network of Forensic Science Institutes (ENFSI)
• the Senior Managers of Australian and New Zealand Forensic Laboratories (SMANZFL)
• the Academia Iberoamericana de Criminalística y Estudios Forenses (AICEF)

These autonomous networks represent forensic science laboratory management for their specific regions. They have similar roles, functions and objectives and recognise the value to be gained through long-term collaboration and cooperation on strategic issues related to the management of forensic science laboratories and the promotion of forensic science. It is recognised that IFSA has no legal status but represents a cooperative entity comprising the member networks.

Vision

To create opportunities for strategic collaboration across the global forensic science community.

Goals and objectives

• to represent the operational forensic science community
• to develop and execute a rolling agenda for strategic issues related to forensic science
• to be a strategic partner to other relevant international organisations and partnerships
• to encourage the exchange of information related to experience, knowledge and skills between the member networks

Memorandum of understanding

The heads of the IFSA networks (ENFSI, AICEF, ASCLD and SMANZFL) have jointly signed a memorandum of understanding on Wednesday, October 24, 2007, at the 15th Interpol International Forensic Science Symposium in Lyon.

The memorandum of understanding (MOU) is designed to build international cooperation in the science-based fight against crime. The cooperation will lead to joint research, methodology development and information exchange allowing forensic science facilities within these networks access to the latest crime fighting tools. The networks will also combine to assist forensic science growth in developing countries on the understanding that it is one of the key factors in establishing basic human rights.

Download the text of the memorandum:

The signing of the MOU is the culmination of extensive talks between the networks to secure ongoing collaboration and the Interpol Symposium was considered as a fitting venue for the historic signing.