Human rights defenders face challenges using data and technology to investigate incidents at sea

What is it about?

There is a significant amount of effort devoted to developing tech tools that leverage data to assist human rights investigations at sea. It is unclear, however, how users incorporate data and data-related tools into their investigations. We speak to human rights practitioners, investigators, and tool developers to find out how such technologies are used -- and whether they are actually helpful. Our results suggest that the field faces significant problems where data and tools are concerned. We find that while there is scope for developers and designers to become involved, technologists’ enthusiasm for cutting-edge solutions appears detached from the needs of rights defenders and affected communities. The result is a large market for under-used tech solutions, while communities’ low-tech needs remain unmet.

Featured Image

Photo by Egle Sidaraviciute on Unsplash

Photo by Egle Sidaraviciute on Unsplash

Why is it important?

The seas are a key area of human activity. Yet events at sea are also said to be hard to track or identify for outside observers. This is problematic for human rights defenders, who seek to expose abuses such as human trafficking on ships and labour exploitation on fishing vessels. In response, human rights practitioners and the tech industry have turned to data and data-driven tools, which are promoted as a means to identify cases. However, it is unclear whether the data and tools being made available are accessible, useful, or impactful for rights practitioners. We provide key insights into the challenges practitioners face regarding existing data and tools, and offer suggestions for how to overcome these.