Marketplace All-in-One Is surveillance technology a more humane alternative to detaining immigrants?
Oct 14, 2025
Petra Molnar, Associate Director at the Refugee Law Lab, discusses the controversial use of surveillance technology in monitoring immigrants released from detention. She highlights the intrusive nature of such technology, describing it as a form of 'digital shackles.' Molnar explains the challenges posed by glitchy smartphone apps that hinder asylum seekers' compliance. She also addresses the psychological impacts of constant surveillance and contrasts it with technology that can genuinely help refugees, advocating for humane and transparent oversight.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Surveillance Acts Like Digital Shackles
- Surveillance tech can follow immigrants into daily life and act like digital shackles rather than humane alternatives.
- Petra Molnar highlights that smartphone apps and trackers bring detention into your pocket and home.
Ankle Monitor Turned Life Into 'Outside Prison'
- Sam, an immigrant in the U.K., described a glitchy ankle monitor that made him feel imprisoned outside of jail.
- He avoided leaving home, his world contracted, and his mental health deteriorated from constant monitoring.
Design Determines Whether Tech Helps Or Harms
- Not all technology is harmful; some reporting apps and mobile tools can reduce detention and improve access to services.
- Molnar stresses outcomes depend on design, who builds the tools, and how they're deployed.