Source URL: https://algorithmwatch.org/en/border-surveillance-on-the-move/
Source: AlgorithmWatch
Title: Border Surveillance on the Move to Enforce Restrictive Measures
Feedly Summary: In two recent Horizon Europe research projects, adaptable and mobile AI-based surveillance assemblages are developed to secure both the external and internal borders of the European Union. AlgorithmWatch looked into project material that revealed a lopsided fixation on defense.
AI Summary and Description: Yes
Summary:
The text discusses two EU Horizon Europe research projects, SEAGUARD and BorderForce, aimed at enhancing digital surveillance at EU borders using advanced technologies. These projects highlight a growing focus on AI and surveillance measures in border management which may raise significant concerns around security, privacy, and human rights.
Detailed Description:
The EU is investing in two substantial projects—SEAGUARD and BorderForce—both of which are intended to strengthen the surveillance infrastructure at the EU’s borders. This initiative reflects a current trend towards using advanced technology and AI solutions for border control in the context of the politically sensitive Migration Pact.
Key Points:
– **Project Objectives**: SEAGUARD and BorderForce are set to provide adaptive technologies aimed at facilitating border crossings while allegedly improving security without friction or delays.
– **Technological Developments**:
– **BorderForce** will deploy flexible surveillance systems capable of adapting to new threats using various technologies, including drones, satellite data, and self-sufficient command centers.
– Surveillance towers equipped with anti-drone technology will generate real-time data and threat assessments, significantly enhancing the capabilities of border security personnel.
– **Privacy and Compliance Concerns**: The extensive use of AI and surveillance technologies brings significant privacy implications, with potential for discriminatory practices against migrants—raising issues of compliance with EU’s human rights obligations.
– **Operational Secrecy**: Information about these projects is largely redacted, which complicates accountability and oversight. The EU’s argument against disclosing details is rooted in security interests, suggesting a potential conflict between transparency and defense operations.
– **Industry Involvement**: The defense sector’s involvement, alongside civilian efforts, presents a dual focus on security and surveillance, which may undermine the civilian nature claimed by Horizon Europe projects.
– **Impact on Migrants**: Illegally entering or remaining in the EU can lead to severe consequences based on the use of automated systems which may employ discriminatory criteria, potentially fuelling violent enforcement measures against undocumented migrants.
The projects reflect a major shift towards using digital technologies for border management, powered by AI, issuing both excitement over technological progress as well as concern over privacy rights and the potential increase in discrimination against marginalized migrant groups. This tension calls for an ongoing dialogue among professionals in security, compliance, and human rights advocacy to navigate the complexities introduced by AI in public and infrastructure security.