Space Communications Supporting Refugees: Legal Aspects
- Paper number
IAC-17,E7,3,3,x38368
- Author
Prof. Mahulena Hofmann, University of Luxembourg, Luxemburg
- Coauthor
Mr. Gerome Aloisio, University of Luxembourg, Luxemburg
- Coauthor
Mrs. Loredana Rinaldis, University of Luxembourg, Luxemburg
- Year
2017
- Abstract
Space communications are used both by the refugees and the institutions supporting them : In the form of telephone services, internet or GPS, the refugees use them during their journey, in the refugee camps in order to communicate with their relatives and attorneys, and to access important information concerning their situation. Space communications are relied upon also by the UN institutions like the UNHCR, and the IOM, for establishing relations between their staff on the spot and the headquarters, as well as by European institutions responsible for the protection of the external EU borders. This contribution analyses several legal aspects of this complex phenomenon: It focuses on the European legal framework which creates the basis of the activities of FRONTEX and its Situation Centre, the EUROSUR and the EU Satellite Centre, as well as the European Maritime Agency. Special attention is devoted to data protection provisions, including those stipulated by the EUROSUR Regulation. Finally, it discusses the issues raised by the invitation to refugees who are still outside Europe, to use European tracking apps in exchange of information.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-17,E7,3,3,x38368.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
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