Berlin, August 23 – Stefan Evers, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) top candidate for the upcoming Berlin election on September 20, has called for a substantial increase in video surveillance, particularly utilizing Artificial Intelligence (AI), to combat crime throughout the German capital. Evers, who currently serves as the Senator for Finance and Culture, expressed his views in an interview with the German Press Agency (dpa).
Expanded AI Surveillance to Prevent Crime
Evers highlighted that the recently tightened police law, a result of the current black-red coalition, already permits AI-enhanced video surveillance in areas with high crime rates. This technology is currently being trialed at Kottbusser Tor, a known crime hotspot. “This path is exactly the right one, and we need much more of it because it can make Berlin significantly safer,” Evers stated.
He further elaborated on the transformative potential of modern video technology: “Previously, video surveillance was only used to secure evidence for later clarification and sometimes acted as a deterrent. However, modern technology allows the police to recognize dangerous situations early and alert officers – before crimes even happen.” According to Evers, this proactive approach would effectively prevent criminal acts.
Broadening Legal Frameworks Beyond Crime Hotspots
Evers’ vision extends beyond the current limitations. “I want everyone to feel safe everywhere in Berlin. And that’s why the use of this technology is part of it for me,” he asserted. “And for that, we also need to expand the legal foundations. It’s not enough for me that we only use this in crime-ridden areas.”
He proposed using identified threats as a criterion for deploying AI camera technology. As an example, Evers cited locations such as the Regenbogenkiez (Rainbow Quarter), where an Israeli restaurant or queer scene establishments have repeatedly faced threats and attacks. He believes AI-supported video surveillance could provide greater security in such areas, which is not currently feasible.
Security Versus Data Protection: A Contentious Debate
Evers directly addressed the common counter-argument regarding data protection. “The state must not block this path while more and more people say they no longer feel safe in certain parts of the city,” he argued. “And often it is women, people of Jewish faith, or queer people who report this to me. With all due respect, simply referring to data protection is not enough for me.” Critics frequently cite data protection concerns as a primary reason against increased video technology on the streets.
AI Video Pilot Project Underway at Kottbusser Tor
The Berlin police are indeed on the verge of deploying new video technology in the fight against street crime. This AI system is designed to identify suspicious behavioral patterns from camera footage and trigger an alarm, allowing police to respond promptly. According to the Senate Department for Interior and Sports, a pilot project is scheduled to commence by the end of September. The system will initially be implemented at Kottbusser Tor and subsequently at Warschauer Straße, both designated as crime hotspots. If the pilot phase proves successful, the use of AI will be gradually extended to other high-crime areas.
The debate surrounding increased surveillance and the balance between public safety and individual privacy is expected to be a significant topic in the lead-up to the Berlin elections.
Source: https://berliner-abendblatt.de/berlin-news/evers-will-mehr-ki-basierte-videoueberwachung-id344901
