Statement on the Use of Chinese Surveillance Technology in the Western Balkans
We, members of IPAC from the Western Balkans, are united in deep concern at the increase of Chinese surveillance technology across our region. On European Data Protection Day, we take a joint stand against this practice and call for better protection of our citizens’ data.
The use of Chinese surveillance technology poses a clear and immediate threat to our national security. Chinese companies are under a legal obligation to share the sensitive data of our constituents on request. Moreover, the presence of security vulnerabilities in Chinese technology increases the risks of our exposure to cyber crimes.
Rapid modernisation of municipal digital infrastructure across the region has created an opportunity for foreign actors to attack the privacy of all of our citizens. Today we express our resolve to support safe digitalisation at all levels and call on the governments of Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Kosovo, Albania and North Macedonia to:
● Ensure public procurement legislation limits the presence of Chinese surveillance technology in public places.
● Enable municipal bodies to increase their cybersecurity capabilities and enhance the safety of their data collection.
● Cooperate within the region on a plan for greater integration of Western Balkan countries to activities of the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity.
● Introduce a clear legislative framework for biometric surveillance in public places.
We also call on our municipalities to review any agreements with Chinese private or public companies allowing access to municipal data networks including educational institutions and other public spaces.
Signatories:
Mimi Kodheli MP, Albania
Fatmir Mediu MP, Albania
Dhurata Çupi MP, Albania
Blerina Gjylameti MP, Albania
Bradhyl Kollçaku MP, Albania
Sanela Klarić MP, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Adi Kalem MP, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Avdullah Hoti MP, Kosovo
Andrija Nikolić MP, Montenegro
Jevrosima Pejović MP, Montenegro
Fatmir Bytyqi MP, North Macedonia
Rashela Mizrahi MP, North Macedonia
Dobrica Veselinović MP, Serbia
Ksenija Marković MP, Serbia
For further insights, you could refer to the op-ed co-authored by IPAC Co-Chair here.
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