In February, the State Duma of the Russian Federation may review a bill that would require genome registration for close relatives of missing persons. The legislative amendment had already cleared its first reading late last year, and the government moved the initiative forward in October.
The proposed change would modify paragraph 5 of part 1 of article 7 of the Federal Law On State Genomic Registration in the Russian Federation. It expands the list of individuals who must undergo genomic registration to include close relatives of missing persons, aligning the law with practical needs in unresolved cases.
Vasily Piskarev, who chairs the State Duma Security Committee, emphasized the significance of the move. As of January 1, 2023, Russia was actively searching for roughly 28 thousand missing persons, among whom about 960 were minors.
Genomic registration has become a global practice used to identify victims in disasters and criminal investigations. Establishing a nationwide database of genetic profiles could dramatically accelerate the process of identifying bodies of missing individuals, particularly when other methods fail due to damage or the long passage of time since death. By comparing genetic material from unknown remains with registered profiles, authorities can shorten the inquiry and improve the chances of confirming identities in complex cases.
When created, genomic information would be preserved for the duration of a missing person search but would not be kept longer than 70 years unless required for ongoing investigations. This approach balances the need for effective identification with privacy and civil liberties concerns.
Earlier, the State Duma approved a law governing the collection of genome information from convicts and suspects, a separate but related measure aimed at expanding the use of genetic data in law enforcement processes.
Some critics have warned about potential overreach and the risk of misapplication of genetic data. Supporters argue that carefully governed genomic registration can bring closure to families, aid disaster response efforts, and enhance public safety by providing a clearer evidentiary trail in unresolved cases. They point to international experience where genetic databases have helped identify victims more quickly after catastrophes, accidents, or violent crime, ultimately reducing the emotional and logistical burden on communities and investigators alike.
Officials stress that any system built around genomic registration must include robust safeguards, clear retention rules, and strict limits on who can access the data. The goal is to enable rapid matching in legitimate investigations while minimizing the potential for misuse or accidental disclosure. As the debate continues, lawmakers are weighing the balance between public interest, privacy rights, and ethical considerations in handling sensitive genetic information.
The proposed framework envisions ongoing oversight by appropriate authorities, transparency about data handling practices, and accountability for violations. If enacted, the legislation would guide how genetic data is collected, stored, and used in the pursuit of identifying missing persons, with emphasis on protecting the rights of individuals and families affected by disappearances.
Ultimately, the discussion centers on whether genomic registration can deliver practical benefits without compromising civil liberties. Proponents argue that a carefully designed system could bring relief to tens of thousands of families and contribute to more effective investigations, while opponents call for rigorous privacy protections and clear boundaries to prevent mission creep. The coming weeks will determine how the final wording addresses these concerns and whether the bill passes into law as part of a broader framework for managing genetic information in Russia.
Citations: This article references legislative developments and public statements from relevant government bodies and officials. Attribution to official records and parliamentary briefings is provided where applicable.