Invisible Barriers, Visible Consequences: Interrogating the human rights impact technological border control
2023 (English)Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (Two Years)), 20 credits / 30 HE credits
Student thesis
Abstract [en]
The externalisation of migration management has emerged as a complex and controversial phenomenon, with implications for the human rights and fundamental freedoms of refugees. This research study aims to investigate the relationship between the use of biometrics, the externalisation of borders, and the resulting infringements upon migrants' rights. Drawing upon a qualitative approach and data visualization analysis, this research delves into a comprehensive analysis of Frontex’s framing in perpetuating the externalisation process and the use of invasive technologies. The findings reveal that the increased use of technology in border control not only poses potential human rights violations but also serves as a central component in the externalisation process. The research also explores participants' awareness of legal procedures, mistreatment and abuse frequencies, attitudes towards technology, and overall impressions of the migration management system. This research contributes to the existing literature by shedding light on the relationship between technology, securitization, and the human rights of refugees within the European Union. By critically examining the framing strategies employed by Frontex and the resulting infringements upon migrants' rights, this study emphasizes the need for greater scrutiny and reevaluation of policies and practices in the context of migration management. Overall, this research serves as a call to action, urging policymakers, stakeholders, and the wider public to reassess the role of technology, ensure the protection of human rights, and strive for a more balanced approach that prioritizes both security and fundamental freedoms.
Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
2023. , p. 64
Keywords [en]
human rights, biometrics, technologies, surveillance, EU, migration, frontex, externalisation
National Category
Social Sciences Interdisciplinary Political Science International Migration and Ethnic Relations
Identifiers
URN: urn:nbn:se:ths:diva-1894OAI: oai:DiVA.org:ths-1894DiVA, id: diva2:1762384
Subject / course
Human Rights
Educational program
Master’s Program in Human Rights
Supervisors
Examiners
2023-06-132023-06-022023-10-11Bibliographically approved