EU watchdog urges nations to exceed AI Act safeguards for biometric policing

The EU Fundamental Rights Agency (FRA) urged national authorities to adopt measures that go beyond the AI Act’s baseline requirements to foster public trust in AI-enabled biometric policing. After gathering data from seven member states, the FRA highlighted gaps in legal frameworks as police increasingly use remote biometric identification to match individuals against watch lists and databases. It called for the publication of fundamental rights impact assessments and independent oversight to assure citizens that safeguards are in place.

The agency’s survey revealed that 37% of respondents fear unauthorized data use and 29% would be less likely to attend peaceful demonstrations if facial-recognition systems are employed. While the AI Act of 2024 prohibits real-time remote biometric identification in public spaces, it permits exceptions for locating missing persons, preventing terror attacks, or protecting life. FRA chief Sirpa Rautio emphasized that clear safeguards are essential to preserve freedoms while allowing legitimate policing uses.