Forensic Archaeology in the Slovak Republic

The field of forensic archaeology, defined as the application of archaeological theory, methods and techniques in a legal context, is not yet sufficiently established in Slovak judicial and forensic practice. This chapter first describes the legislation and procedures undertaken by the state authorities in cases involving the looting of archaeological sites. Next, it discusses the legal background in relation to war graves from World War I and II (WWI and WWII). Furthermore, the chapter provides information on forensic practices and methods used in Slovakia in surveys for corpses and clandestine graves. It summarises the procedures associated with the recovery of human remains from clandestine graves and the type of expertise required in such cases. After the discovery of a clandestine grave potentially containing human remains, police investigators undertake the excavation and secure the human remains by using their own methods and procedures.