Abstract

VILA SEOANE, Maximiliano. Digitization, Automation and Transnational Private Security Companies in Areas of Limited Statehood. rev.relac.int.estrateg.segur. [online]. 2018, vol.13, n.2, pp.247-272. ISSN 1909-3063.  https://doi.org/10.18359/ries.3300.

The study of the increase in military and private security companies and electronic surveillance practices are two topics of growing debate in international relations. On the one hand, the privatization of security has effects on international security and state sovereignty. On the other hand, the expansion of electronic surveillance practices poses new risks to human rights, such as privacy. In this context, this article explores a subject that has been little researched in areas of limited statehood: the implications of the continuous process of digitization and automation in the private security and electronic surveillance industry. The article analyzes the discourses of transnational private security and electronic surveillance companies operating in Argentina and the problems associated with these practices. Specifically, it lists the consequences of digitization and automation, such as increased technological dependence, offer of false technological solutions that do not tackle complex social problems causing insecurity, increasing vulnerability of electronic surveillance equipment to technological failures, and the new threats to human rights. Finally, the main points and recommendations for public policy to counterbalance asymmetries in favor of these transnational companies are summarized.

Keywords : electronic surveillance; human rights; private security; technological dependence; transnational companies.

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