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 Central Med - ca. 45 people in distress off #Zawiya !
We are in contact with a group in distress at sea ca. 35 miles north of #Libya. The people told us that they ran out of fuel and that their boat is sinking.
Authorities are alerted, please act quickly!

The attack by Italy on the rescue organisation @RescueMed for adhering to maritime law is cynical. The first ship of the #JusticeFleet faces 60 days of detention & a 10k fine for rescuing people to the Italian shore. Our full solidarity with #Mediterranea!

🆘 URGENT!
70 people in distress off #Libya!
Last night we received calls from people on a deflating rubber boat, they reported people in the water, we immediately informed authorities. The phone numbers of the so-called Libyan coastguard are not responsive.
Rescue is needed NOW!

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