Comment by ARTICLE 19

In this policy, ARTICLE 19 outlines its position on the effects that the development and deployment of biometric technologies have on the right to freedom of expression. This policy is motivated by concerns about the rapid and increased use of biometric technologies not only by the private sector but also by public authorities. Biometric technologies are being used to analyse the way people act, look, and express themselves in public and private spheres. Their use ranges from border patrol to unlocking a smartphone, but one thing is clear: their use is being normalised. [...] For these reasons, ARTICLE 19 warns against the use of biometric technologies, especially on national security and counterterrorism grounds, without a sufficient legislative framework to protect human rights. We consider that a human rights-based approach ought to be embedded at the start of the design and development of any technology. Therefore, we call for a moratorium on the development and deployment of all biometric technologies by both States and private actors until they can ensure the full protection of freedom of expression and full compliance with international human rights standards. [...] Summary of recommendations: 1. States should ban biometric mass surveillance