At the beginning of April, the European Commission presented its new Communication on Stronger and Smarter Information Systems for Borders and Security. Although a number of systems already exist at EU level for data gathering and exchange, the data architecture of these systems needs to be improved in order to effectively face modern day threats.
Putting particular emphasis on the Schengen Information System, Interpol’s database on Stolen and Lost Travel Documents, and the Visa Information System, the Communication presents a series of ideas on how the existing systems could be improved and how new information systems should be created to address information gaps. Interoperability of these systems is a key aspects that will need to be addressed. This has previously also been pointed out in the European Agenda on Security.
Going further, the Communication explores how existing and future information systems could enhance both external border management and internal security in the EU. It makes a strong reference to the Passenger Name Records (PNR) directive, which was recently adopted by the European Parliament, and points out some aspects that need to be taken into account in future information systems to ensure that border guards, customs authorities, police officers and judicial authorities have the necessary information at their disposal.
The European Commission Communication is available here.