Racial profiling still rife across the EU, Council of Europe says | Africanews
Racial Profiling Remains a Critical Issue Across the EU: Expert Analysis Warns of Amplification by Emerging TechnologiesThe issue of racial profiling persists as a significant concern across the European Union, according to recent findings from the Council of Europe. This organization has highlighted how widespread and insidious forms of discrimination persist in member states despite ongoing efforts to combat inequality.
Racial profiling, defined not merely as targeting specific ethnic groups but any form of discriminatory behavior based on characteristics such as appearance or behavior, continues to manifest in various law enforcement and social contexts across the EU. According to the Council of Europe, many European countries continue to employ practices that disadvantage vulnerable communities, often rooted in outdated stereotypes rather than legitimate security concerns.
The organization emphasized that these practices are not confined to explicit racial slurs but also include implicit discrimination based on physical traits or behaviors perceived as linked to certain groups. This subtle yet deeply harmful form of profiling can lead to unequal treatment and hinder social cohesion.
New technologies such as facial recognition systems raise significant alarm, as experts warn they could exacerbate the problem by making discrimination more efficient and less overt. These technologies, increasingly deployed in law enforcement, enable rapid identification based on appearance, potentially amplifying biases and perpetuating cycles of inequality.
The European Union has taken steps to address these issues through various reforms aimed at promoting transparency and accountability in law enforcement practices. However, critics argue that many member states are slow to adapt, with some using facial recognition technologies to justify discriminatory policies.
A study by the Council of Europe found a strong correlation between areas employing heavy use of facial recognition and higher rates of criminal incidents, particularly in communities of color. This data underscores how these technologies can inadvertently fuel stereotypes and reinforce existing inequalities when coupled with biased training datasets or lack of oversight.
The organization calls on EU member states to prioritize inclusive law enforcement practices that avoid reinforcing racial or ethnic biases. It also advocates for transparency about the use of technology in identifying individuals, ensuring accountability and minimizing disparities.
In conclusion, while progress has been made in tackling racial profiling, ongoing challenges remain, particularly with technologies that can normalize discriminatory practices. The Council of Europe's call to action serves as a reminder of the urgent need for systemic change to ensure fairness and equality across the EU.
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