The Use of Digital Tools, AI and Blockchain Technology in Asylum Procedures on Administrative Level

• Author: Eleonora Testi

Speaker

Eleonora Testi is Legal Officer at the European Council on Refugees and Exiles. She currently coordinates the Asylum Information Database (AIDA), which contains detailed information on asylum systems in 23 European countries, and ECRE’s advocacy on the European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA).

She co-authored the AIDA comparative report on Digitalisation of asylum procedures, drawing, inter alia, on information provided by ECRE’s member organisations. As part of ECRE’s Advocacy team, she also works on monitoring developments on the New Pact on Asylum and Migration, as well as issues regarding compliance with the CEAS from EU member states. Previously, she worked as Research Officer for the EUAA in Italy, in support to second instance determination, and as Legal consultant for the Norwegian Refugee Council in Ecuador.

Topic

In this presentation, Eleonora Testi delves into the fascinating realm of digital tools, artificial intelligence (AI), and blockchain technology, unveiling their potential applications across various stages of the asylum procedure at the administrative level. With a keen focus on shedding light on existing obstacles and challenges within these procedures, Testi offers insightful recommendations on harnessing the power of new technologies and adopting innovative approaches to address these issues effectively.

As the presentation progresses, Testi shines a light on the inherent complexities and pitfalls faced within the asylum system. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing these challenges, which range from bureaucratic inefficiencies to information gaps and inconsistencies, which can often result in delayed and inaccurate decisions. These roadblocks can have dire consequences for asylum seekers, further emphasizing the need for transformative solutions.

Guided by her comprehensive research and expertise, Testi paints a vivid picture of a future where blockchain technology can become a game-changer in the realm of asylum procedures. She elucidates how the decentralized nature of blockchain can foster transparency, immutability, and trust within the administrative processes, effectively addressing issues such as...