The Human Rights Impact of Biometric Surveillance: A Community-Based Study
Keywords:
Biometric surveillance, human rights, privacy, qualitative study, Tehran, data security, discrimination, technological ethicsAbstract
This study aimed to explore the human rights impact of biometric surveillance through the lived experiences and perceptions of community members in Tehran. A qualitative research design was employed, utilizing semi-structured interviews with 27 participants recruited purposively from Tehran. Data collection continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. Interview transcripts were analyzed thematically using NVivo software to identify key themes related to privacy concerns, legal and ethical issues, social and community impacts, and technological factors. Four main themes emerged from the analysis. Privacy concerns dominated, with participants highlighting limited awareness of data collection, fears about data security breaches, surveillance-induced anxiety, behavioral modifications, and distrust of authorities. Legal and ethical issues revealed perceived regulatory gaps, challenges in obtaining genuine consent, and calls for accountable and ethical technology use. Socially, biometric surveillance was associated with discrimination, social exclusion, erosion of trust, low public awareness, and disproportionate effects on vulnerable groups. Technological factors, including accuracy limitations, data management practices, technological accessibility, system integration, user control deficits, and lack of transparency, further shaped participants’ perceptions. These findings underscore the multifaceted human rights challenges posed by biometric surveillance in a context with evolving technological adoption but insufficient legal safeguards. The study demonstrates that biometric surveillance significantly impacts individuals’ privacy, autonomy, and social well-being, particularly in settings lacking robust regulation and public engagement. Addressing these issues requires comprehensive legal frameworks, transparent and ethical technology deployment, enhanced public awareness, and inclusive governance models to safeguard human rights in the digital age.
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