Machine learning, Border Patrol leaders believe, is the future of border enforcement. Cameras and drones can allow them to surveil more remote regions. This technology is acquired by a powerful yet little-known research and development wing of the Department of Homeland Security working on collaboration with private companies to design the border technologies of tomorrow.
When it comes to new technologies, the border is often a zone for testing and experimentation. Any technologies being put to use on the ground are a product of years of research and design, testing, and contract negotiations.
By investigating existing AI technologies at the border and those that are currently being designed and tested for government use, this project will provide insight into the present and future of machine learning technologies at the border and their potential shadow consequences with regard to human rights, security, and privacy, both at the border and beyond.
