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

🆘️! 50 people in urgent distress south of #Crete!

We are in contact with the group, who told us that they are struggling with strong winds and that water is entering the boat. They are very afraid! We informed the @HCoastGuard & urge them to search & rescue the group now!!

🆘️! 70 people south of #Crete!

Relatives told us that they were in contact with the group around 4 hours ago, since then there was no more contact. We informed the @HCoastGuard & urge them to search & rescue the group now!
#SafePassage for all!

🆘️ from ~59 people in urgent distress at sea south of #Crete!

We have not been able to reach the people since morning, when they reported water entering the boat. Authorities have been informed but there is no confirmation of a rescue operation. They need rescue NOW!