UN human rights experts have raised concerns about the rapid global expansion of digital surveillance technologies and their impact on fundamental freedoms, warning that current practices may undermine democratic participation and civic space. The joint statement highlights growing risks linked to the use of surveillance tools in ways that may not align with international human rights standards.
The experts noted that such technologies are increasingly deployed against civil society actors, journalists, political opposition groups, and minorities, contributing to what they describe as a “chilling effect” on freedom of expression and dissent. They stressed that this trend is reshaping civic space by discouraging participation and limiting open public discourse.
They also pointed to the expanding use of advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, in areas such as law enforcement, counter-terrorism, and border management. Without strong legal safeguards, they warned, these systems can enable large-scale monitoring, predictive profiling, and biased decision-making that may result in disproportionate targeting of individuals and communities.
According to the statement, digital surveillance systems operate within broader ecosystems involving governments, private companies, and data intermediaries. The experts said this interconnected structure expands surveillance capacity while making it harder to assess human rights impacts and accountability across the system.
To address these risks, the experts called for stronger regulatory safeguards, including clear limits on surveillance, risk-based oversight of AI systems, and comprehensive human rights impact assessments throughout technology development and deployment. They also emphasized the need for accountability mechanisms, independent oversight, and access to remedies for affected individuals.
They further urged governments to align national laws with international human rights standards and improve data protection, system testing, and validation processes. The experts also suggested that international cooperation may be necessary, including the potential development of a global framework to regulate digital surveillance technologies.
