Immigration Crackdown: How AI Could Be Used to Deport Undocumented Residents
The upcoming administration has vowed to initiate mass deportations of undocumented residents in the United States. With the selection of Thomas Homan as “border czar” and Stephen Miller as deputy chief of staff for policy, it’s clear that the approach will be aggressive. But can artificial intelligence (AI) help make this promise a reality?
The Logistical Challenges of Mass Deportation
Carrying out mass deportations is a daunting task. However, AI may be able to assist in identifying and tracking undocumented residents. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has already begun exploring the use of AI, with a $5 million budget allocation to open an AI Office in the DHS Office of the Chief Information Officer.
Concerns About AI-Powered Deportation
Security experts and immigration advocates are worried about how AI might be used to facilitate mass deportations. Petra Molnar, a lawyer and anthropologist, warns that AI could create a “surveillance dragnet” that captures communities across the US. Remaya Campbell, acting commissioner for Homeland Security for the District of Columbia, fears that AI could automate immigration-related decision-making, bypassing traditional processes and potentially leading to biased outcomes.
The Role of AI in Border Security
AI is already being used in border security, with drones and sensor towers equipped with machine-learning capabilities to identify unusual patterns and minimize false alarms. However, experts warn that expanding AI surveillance could lead to privacy concerns and potential rights violations.
The Risks of AI-Powered Deportation
Neil Sahota, an AI advisor to the United Nations AI for Good Initiative, notes that AI surveillance systems could be used to fast-track deportations, potentially leading to errors and racial profiling. Laura MacCleery, senior policy director of Unidos U.S., highlights the risk of inaccurate conclusions and data bias, particularly affecting people of color.
A More Optimistic View
Not everyone is concerned about the use of AI in immigration enforcement. Marina Shepelsky, CEO and immigration attorney at Shepelsky Law Group, believes that AI will blossom and be deregulated in the upcoming administration, making life easier for lawyers, doctors, and scientists.
The Future of AI in Immigration Enforcement
As the administration prepares to take office, it’s clear that AI will play a significant role in immigration enforcement. While some experts warn of the risks of AI-powered deportation, others see the potential benefits of increased efficiency and accuracy. One thing is certain: the use of AI in immigration enforcement will be closely watched and debated in the coming months.
Leave a Reply