“Security, Border and the ‘techno-hype’”

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Abstract:

On October 14, 2023, European Council President Charles Michel urged EU leaders to address the potential security and societal impacts of the conflict between Hamas and Israel, particularly the “risk of migratory waves towards Europe.” Migration has long been securitized within the EU, evident through databases like the Visa Information System (VIS), Eurodac, and upcoming systems like the Entry/Exit System (EES) and ETIAS, designed to streamline border security. The growing use of biometric data and AI to process information has created new uncertainties, especially for asylum seekers, whose status is often uncertain and viewed with suspicion. Despite technological advances, increasing border security has led to a rise in migrant deaths, particularly in the Mediterranean and the English Channel. The drive to “datafy” borders has introduced confusion and ambiguity, complicating governance and contributing to a “security paradox.” While these systems and practices aim to enhance security, they often create new risks and inefficiencies, overshadowing real security challenges, such as migrants’ security.

Sarah Perret is Associate Professor of International Relations at ESPOL, Université Catholique de Lille.