Russian Surveillance Software Suppresses Georgian Civilians Rights
algorithmwatch.org
algorithmwatch.org
Unfortunately Europe is doing no better regarding surveillance [1,2,3]. Only the repression is not yet so harsh (arguably).
(This complaint should be interpreted as the opposite of whataboutism - it makes the problem worse and more urgent in both places, since there is no more safety to flee to, or to point to as examples of freedom.)
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anti-mask_law
[2] https://euperspectives.eu/2025/08/surveillance-becoming-norm...
[3] https://www.politico.eu/article/data-retention-europe-mass-s...
Is it?
France: "Article 431-9-1, now stipulates a sentence of one year's imprisonment and a fine of €15,000 for voluntarily concealing all or part of the face "without legitimate reason" whilst attending a demonstration "during or at the end of which disturbances to public order are committed or are likely to be committed."" [0]
Meanwhile in Canada: "Bill C-309 became law, banning the wearing of masks during a riot or unlawful assembly, carrying a maximum ten-year prison sentence with a conviction of the offence." [1]
But I don't understand, right, it's different, Georgian masked rioters are pro-democracy freedom fighters, and protesters in the West are forces of darkness.
[0] https://www.lemonde.fr/en/les-decodeurs/article/2023/05/12/i...
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Preventing_Persons_from_Concea...
And honestly, personally I am of the opinion that even the repression is just as harsh, but in a different way. But this is not the place to open that can of worms, so I leave it at (arguably).