The discourse surrounding technology’s neutrality fuels debates between those envisioning a utopian future propelled by technological progress and those fearing a dystopian reality where emerging technologies become instruments of oppression. This paper looks into this contradiction, exploring the potential of technology as a catalyst for rebuilding human rights in the face of oppressive governments, capitalism, and entrenched power hierarchies.
To investigate these possibilities, our focus shifts to Forensic Architecture (FA), an interdisciplinary research agency founded in 2011. At Goldsmiths, University of London, FA stands out through its commitment to deploying cutting-edge techniques across diverse fields. Nour Abuzaid, a key figure within FA, emphatically asserts that technology is not neutral but shaped by specific political and historical contexts. The agency’s primary objective is to investigate global human rights violations, employing a multidisciplinary team and a variety of methodologies such as geolocation, 3D modeling, audio analysis, data mining, fluid dynamics simulation, and virtual reality.
As FA’s work extends beyond conventional boundaries, their findings are evidence in legal proceedings and major museum exhibitions. Founder Eyal Weizman underscores their mission to challenge established narratives through an alternative form of art that confronts doubt and employs aesthetic techniques to question prevailing truths. Notably, FA’s contribution to analyzing Israel’s use of white phosphorus munitions exemplifies their commitment to justice and accountability. Collaborating with Situ Studios, FA produced a 2012 report utilizing computer modeling to expose the indiscriminate impact of air-bursting M825 white phosphorus munitions in populated areas, contributing to the call for a ban on such munitions in civilian areas.
During the 2008–2009 Gaza conflict, white phosphorus shells created low, luminous clouds that descended ominously, causing severe injuries and igniting fires, including at a UN school. Initially, Israel denied using white phosphorus, later claiming it as a ‘smoke screen’ in compliance with international law. In response, FA was commissioned to analyze white phosphorus munitions, concluding that they were likely used to harass and terrorize citizens, not as a ‘smoke screen’ as claimed.
FA’s findings were presented at a November 2012 UN Convention on Conventional Weapons meeting, eliciting enthusiastic responses from many state representatives despite opposition from Japan, Israel, and the U.S. Subsequently, the report supported a petition to Israel’s High Court, contested by the military and the State Attorney who questioned FA’s competence. Amid this debate, the Israeli military declared in April 2013 a cessation of white phosphorus use in populated areas, citing its unfavorable visual representation.
(Iyad El Baba/UNICEF/SITU Research | Forensic Architecture)
Highlighting FA’s integration of innovative techniques such as geolocation, 3D modeling, and computer-assisted simulations showcases their commitment to pushing the boundaries of investigative practices. This innovative approach allows for a comprehensive understanding of complex incidents. FA’s ability to present its findings as evidence in legal proceedings and significant museum exhibitions underscores its impact in bridging the gap between art and justice. This unique presentation format reaches a broader audience and challenges conventional norms.
The debate over the admissibility of FA’s report in Israel’s High Court, with the military and State Attorney questioning architects’ competence in military matters, highlights a potential weakness. FA’s interdisciplinary team, while diverse, may face skepticism regarding its expertise in certain specialized areas. Like any investigative agency, FA’s interpretation of events may be subject to biases or limitations in the available data. While efforts are made to ensure objectivity, the complexity of conflicts and the reliance on various sources may introduce elements of subjectivity.
In conclusion, Forensic Architecture’s role as a transformative force challenges conventional perceptions of technology. Through their dedication to advancing spatial analysis and digital modeling, FA exemplifies the potential for technology to reshape the human rights landscape, offering concrete evidence in cases involving violations.