A panel on Surveillance and National Security in Africa

SESSION TITLE: Striking a Balance: Surveillance and National Security in Africa

INTORDUCTION:

In recent years, Africa has witnessed a significant increase in surveillance technologies and practices aimed at enhancing national security. For instance, a report by the Africa Center for Strategic Studies indicates that as of December 2020, over a dozen African countries had deployed surveillance devices for varying purposes. While the need to safeguard citizens and protect them against potential threats is crucial, the balance between surveillance and individual rights must be carefully examined. This panel session aims to explore the challenges, ethical considerations, and potential solutions related to surveillance and national security in Africa. By bringing together experts from various fields, we seek to foster a comprehensive dialogue on striking the right balance between security and privacy in the African context..

SESSION STRUCTURE:

Opening Remarks (5 minutes)

The moderator will introduce the topic, highlight its relevance in the African context, and provide a brief overview of the session's objectives.

CONCLUSION:

This panel session aims to provide a platform for comprehensive discussions on the complex issues surrounding surveillance and national security in Africa. By bringing together diverse perspectives, we hope to foster a better understanding of the challenges, ethical considerations, and potential solutions to strike an appropriate balance between security and individual rights. The insights gained from this session will contribute to the ongoing dialogue on surveillance practices, inform policymakers, and encourage responsible and transparent approaches to national security in Africa.