Renewed capacity building needed in biometric use

The United Nations Counter-Terrorism Executive Directorate has published its latest Analytical Brief, which explores trends and challenges related to using biometrics in counter terrorism, reporting that a renewed effort in capacity building and technical assistance is needed for member states as well as support from the private sector.

The documents aim to provide a starting point for UN Member State to adopt Security Council resolution 2396 (2017), which is legislation detailing the mandatory development and adoption of systems to collect biometric data in order to responsibly identify terrorists.

The document suggests that while 118 of the 193 UN Member States have taken some steps towards the introduction of biometrics for counter-terrorism purposes, the extent and expertise of these systems varies substantially from state to state.

The report notes an increase in some states in the sharing of biometric data as part of counter-terrorism cooperation and information-sharing measures. According to the Analytical Brief, there are also several challenges hindering the prompt deployment of biometrics in counter terrorism.

Most of these originate from insufficient capacity, legal and administrative frameworks, as well as insufficient oversight, safeguards, and protection of privacy and data, and reinforcement of existing discrimination and inequalities.