The Council criticizes the prolongation of video surveillance through algorithms
Let's Break Down the Recent Ruckus over Algorithmic Video Surveillance (AVS)
Where We Left Off:In a surprising turn of events, France's Constitutional Council decided to rope-a-dope a controversial provision, nixed on April 24, 2025, that aimed to prolong the experimental phase of AVS in public spaces until March 2027.
This disruptive decision tackled Article 15 of a law geared towards beefing up public safety, an extension of a security measure brought into play for the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games (JOP). The measure involved AVS systems scanning public event footage for suspicious activities like crowd movements and unauthorized zone intrusions.
Scratching Heads in the LegislatureBefore the official evaluation report submitted by the JOP law hit the scene, some shrewd deputies had already appealed to the Constitutional Council regarding this article, accusing it of being a "legislative rider" – an unrelated tagalong. Their argument was that the article bore no semblance to the Senate's initial bill proposition. The Council, in its wisely-penned wisdom, concurred, stating that the extended AVS trial presented no direct or indirect connection with the initial bill proposal.
Two Steps Forward, One Step Back for AVS AdvocatesThe ruling delivered a setback for the government, which had been itching to keep the wheels spinning on these security technologies. Opponents had been calling for an extension even before the ray of truth delivered by the JOP law evaluation report was unveiled.
The Unveil: What Does the Report Say?Kicking off the New Year, this report dropped a bombshell, highlighting the gray areas in some deployed technologies while acknowledging the usefulness of AVS systems taken in specific cases based on field agents' testimonies.
A Minute's DigestWant to learn the ins and outs of AVS in just a few ticks? Check out our succinct explainer on the debate surrounding this fascinating tech in under three minutes.
Keep the Convo GoingGot more questions on the intricacies of AVS and its future in France? We'd love to chat!
References:- [1] Extension of algorithmic video surveillance trial until 2027 validated in committee- [2] Article reserved for our subscribers Algorithmic video surveillance: evaluation report questions the effectiveness of the system- [3] Controversy over AVS: An In-Depth Look at Algorithmic Policing- [4] Privacy Concerns Brewing Over AVS in Public Spaces- [5] Navigating the Ethics and Practical Implications of AVS Technologies
Disclaimer: The author assumes no liability whatsoever for the information provided in this article and should not be construed as legal advice. Readers are encouraged to verify and obtain legal counsel if needed.
Note: The original date of the Constitutional Council's decision (April 24, 2023) mentioned in the article is incorrect. The correct date is April 24, 2025. For current information, consult official records or verified updates related to the case.
- The ruling against the extension of the AVS experimental phase in 2025 has faced strong opposition from those advocating for transport security, as it might hinder the provision of advanced surveillance systems in public spaces.
- Despite the recent decision by France's Constitutional Council, policy-and-legislation experts are closely monitoring politics surrounding AVS, anticipating adjustments in the policy that could affect the general news landscape in the future.
- As the debate on algorithmic video surveillance intensifies, politicians and lawmakers are revisiting their positions on the technology, weighing its potential benefits in transport safety against privacy concerns.
- In light of the controversial AVS decision, the job market for individuals with expertise in policy and legislation on technology and transport may see significant changes in the coming years, depending on the final policy outcomes and legislation passed.







































