Technology-Mediated Migration Management: Mapping the Legal Framework

As governments increasingly deploy technological tools to monitor, control and manage migration, serious concerns are being raised about the impact of these tools on migrants' human rights. From biometric databases to drone surveillance to AI-powered risk assessments, these tools often operate without adequate legal safeguards or transparency, creating risks of discrimination, exclusion and rights violations.

BIICL is currently working with Privacy International to explore the various legal avenues available for challenging harmful uses of technology in the context of migration. BIICL's role involves developing a legal briefing that examines the human rights and data protection implications of the use of technology to target migrants. Our work will focus on two key areas: (1) international human rights law and authoritative statements from international and regional human rights bodies; and (2) decisions of data protection authorities around the world, particularly within Europe.

By conducting in-depth legal research and analysis to identify relevant legislation, judicial findings and authoritative resources, our work aims to map the current legal landscape with a view to strengthening the protection of migrants' rights in the digital age.