Policy Focus

MEP outcry over 'virtual strip search' scanners in EU airports

MEPs say that commission plans to allow airports throughout the EU to use full-body scanner security checks that show private body parts raise serious human rights concerns.

The executive proposed last month to add body scanners to a list of security measures that can be used at airports in each member state.

But the scanners are equivalent to “a virtual strip search”, MEPs say in a draft resolution that will be put to a vote on Thursday.

The resolution, drawn up by deputies from the assembly’s main groups, says the measure would have a “serious impact” on fundamental rights, and calls for an assessment of its scientific and economic impact.

“Many travellers will consider these scanners an enormous intrusion,” UK Tory MEP Philip Bradbourn said.

“There may be some benefit in having body scanners in our airports, but they should be a last resort and a substitution for a strip search, not a random sample of innocent holidaymakers.

“The commission is attempting to introduce these measures without consulting national governments or MEPs, and that is simply unacceptable given the considerable concerns.

“There is a growing anxiety that the EU is seen as a tool for challenging basic liberties, without the usual scrutiny and accountability provided at the ballot box.”

Further reaction came from ALDE deputy Sarah Ludford, her party’s spokesman on justice issues, who said, “Travellers need to know exactly what the images display, their right to opt for an alternative search, and how they can have confidence that intrusive and sensitive images will not be misused.

“Although claims are made that the images are not of photographic quality, they seem to be quite explicit about portrayal of genitalia and intimate medical details like breast implants and colostomy bags.

“I’m sure commissioner Tajani would not like it if pictures of his body scan were circling the internet.

“So the introduction of ‘virtual strip search’ cannot be treated as a purely technical matter, as these body scanners pose serious issues of civil liberties and personal dignity. Fears arise about the images finding their way into the press and onto the internet, maybe through payment to employees, unless bans on storage are strictly policed.

“The fact that the commission proposes to authorise their use without advice from data protection watchdogs on necessary safeguards is a disgrace.

“Parliament would be neglecting its duty if it failed to insist on a transparent and open debate on an issue affecting the fundamental rights of millions of citizens.”

However, a commission spokesman has said that fears concerning the EU executive’s proposal were exaggerated.

“It is correct the body will indeed be pictured but the quality is more that of a negative of a photograph. It is not a very clear image but sufficient to detect metal things, explosives or strange objects,” he said.

A number of EU states including the Netherlands already use body scanners and the commission wants to harmonise the conditions in which they operate. EU countries would be free to decide whether to introduce body scanners in their airports, he added.