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)
• the Asian Forensic Sciences Network (AFSN)

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, SMANZFL and AFSN) have jointly signed a new letter of understanding on Tuesday October 5th, 2010, at the 16th International Forensic Science Symposium hosted by Interpol in Lyon. The reason for updating the LuO was the AFSN joining the IFSA network.

The LoU 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 LoU:  

The signing of the LoU is the culmination of extensive talks between the networks to secure ongoing collaboration and the Interpol Symposium 2010 was considered as a fitting venue for the historic signing. The event was particularly special because the daughter and granddaughter of Dr Edmont Locard were present. Dr Locard was the first to establish a forensic laboratory 100 years ago in Lyon, France.

During the annual meeting of the IFSA partners, which was held prior to the IFSS 2010 in Lyon, the presidency of IFSA was transferred from ASCLD to ENFSI. As a result Dr Jan De Kinder is now the Chair of IFSA. In May 2011 this role will be taken over by Pawel Rybicki who is now the Chair Designate of ENFSI.