Guardian: EU asks tech firms to pitch refugee-tracking systems

“Border agency Frontex has asked for designs for smartphone apps and databases to track and manage refugees arriving in Europe […]
But some of the frontline organisations working with migrants questioned how such a system would work. Dr Maurice Stierl of WatchTheMed Alarm Phone, an organisation of activists that supports free movement of migrants, criticised the proposals. The organisation operates an emergency phone service for migrants whose boats get into trouble in various stretches of sea around Europe, contacting the nearest coastguards to alert them when they receive an SOS call. In the last 15 months they have received about 1,400 distress calls. “

External Link: Guardian: EU asks tech firms to pitch refugee-tracking systems

Alarmphone on X

🆘️ from 75 people in severe distress south of #Crete!
The group is panicking as water is entering their boat & they are adrift in high waves. @HCoastGuard said that they did not find them, even though we provided updated positions. We urge them to continue the search!

🆘️ from 53 people south of #Crete!

We alerted the @HCoastGuard already last night. They told us on the phone that they are searching for the boat. The group remains without food or water - we hope they will be found & rescued soon!

🆘️ from ~71 people on #Ikaria island!

We alerted the @HCoastGuard when the group was still at sea. Meanwhile, they have reached Ikaria & ask for immediate medical assistance. Among them are 2 pregnant women, children & other vulnerable people. They need medical assistance now!