Bermuda Human Rights Watchdog Raises FRT Concerns

The implementation of facial-recognition technology as part of Bermuda’s new security camera network has raised privacy and human rights concerns. The Bermuda Human Rights Commission (HRC) has expressed alarm over the potential implications of the technology, highlighting its possible incompatibility with the Constitution and international agreements.

“The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has commented on the need to take urgent action to assess and address the serious risks that facial-recognition technology poses to human rights,” said Lisa Reed, executive officer of the HRC . “The implementation of facial-recognition technology has far-reaching and alarming implications for human rights and privacy, and may be deemed incompatible with the Constitution and international covenants that Bermuda is a signatory to.”

Privacy concerns regarding security camera systems in Bermuda are not new. In 1997, the introduction of a $1.3 million CCTV system by the Corporation of Hamilton faced opposition due to privacy concerns. Recently, the Free Democratic Movement raised similar issues about the new camera network, particularly in the Loyal Hill area of Devonshire, claiming it could infringe on personal freedoms.

In response to the comments from Reed, both the Minister of National Security and the Commissioner of Police released statements seeking to reassure the public that privacy rights would not be violated and that robust protocols would be followed by all government bodies using the cameras.

The Ministry of National Security also reiterated its commitment to balancing public safety with privacy expectations, noting that meetings with the Privacy Commissioner will be held to ensure privacy protections are in place as the new CCTV system is commissioned.

This system, which includes enhanced capabilities for tracking and recognizing both individuals and vehicles, is expected to be operational by summer.

Source: The Royal Gazette

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May 21, 2024 — by Tony Bitzionis