Emerging Technologies and EU Internal Security: A Double-Edged Sword

The European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) has released an in-depth report investigating how emerging technologies are changing internal security in the EU. The report highlights both the advantages and disadvantages that innovations pose, and of specific interest to it are Artificial Intelligence, drones, blockchain, and quantum computing:

• AI is increasingly being utilized by law enforcement agencies for threat detection and predictive analysis, while the same technology can be utilized by criminals for applications such as deepfake creation and cyberattacks via automated tools.
• Drones can be employed on a dual basis as tools for surveillance and response in case of emergencies but can become dangerous if employed for criminal operations such as smuggling or unauthorized surveillance.
• Quantum computing holds out the potential to advance secure communication but potentially could undermine current methods of encryption.
• Blockchain technology increases transaction security but possibly can enable anonymous criminal financial activities.

The JRC report urges future-oriented EU policies to unlock the potential of these technologies and mitigate risks. Recommendations include strengthening foresight and risk analysis, enhancing AI and digital legislations, promoting public-private partnerships, and investment in secure cyber and security infrastructure. These will ensure that technological advancement benefits the EU’s internal security environment in a positive manner.

Author(s): Francesca Foliti, APRE – Agenzia per la Promozione della Ricerca Europea