(iPoster) Digital Transnational Repression and AI-Driven Surveillance in Western Host States

• In Event: Poster Session: Democracy and Autocracy I

Abstract

Securitization of digital space and proliferation of AI-driven surveillance techniques at the hands of authoritarian regimes, are part of numerous campaigns of digital transnational repression of emigrants, diasporas and dissidents residing abroad. The role of Western actors (corporations and governments) is likely consequential in allowing (if not encouraging) such practices in exchange for securing profits, or lucrative deals, treaties, or alliances (as documented in the case of Italy-Egypt relations among many others). This project seeks to further our understanding of the role Western governments and companies (Black Cube, Netsweeper) play in promoting digital and AI-assisted transnational repression, while countering the actions of civil society actors like Amnesty International and Citizen Lab, meant to protect dissidents and vulnerable emigrant communities.

Author

• Anca Turcu, University of Central Florida