UN experts warn of digital surveillance risks to human rights and civic space
UN experts have raised concerns over the global expansion of digital surveillance and AI, calling for stronger safeguards to protect fundamental freedoms.
Independent experts appointed by the United Nations Human Rights Council have issued a joint statement, warning about the increasing use of digital surveillance technologies and their impact on fundamental rights and democratic participation.
The warning comes from several Special Rapporteurs, including those responsible for freedom of assembly, counter-terrorism, human rights defenders, and privacy. These experts are mandated to monitor global developments and provide independent assessments on human rights issues.
In their joint communication, the experts highlight how surveillance tools and artificial intelligence are increasingly used in areas such as law enforcement, national security, and border management, often without sufficient legal safeguards.
They note that such technologies are frequently deployed against civil society actors, journalists, and political opposition, contributing to a “chilling effect” where individuals may avoid expressing opinions or participating in public life due to fear of monitoring.
The experts also point to the role of AI in expanding surveillance capabilities. AI systems can analyse large datasets and enable predictive profiling, increasing both the scale and speed of monitoring activities.
Another concern raised is the development of interconnected surveillance ecosystems involving cooperation between governments, private companies, and data intermediaries, which can extend the reach of surveillance practices.
The experts call for stronger regulatory frameworks, including clear legal limits, independent oversight, and accountability mechanisms. They also emphasise the need for human rights impact assessments and suggest restricting technologies that pose high risks and cannot meet international standards.
