To secure its fan-zone, the city of Nice is experimenting with facial recognition. But for it to be operational by the kickoff of Euro 2016, Christian Estrosi, the mayor of the capital of the Côte d’Azur, will have to wait for the green light from the Government.
Already a pioneer in 2010 when he established the first video-protection center in France, Christian Estrosi, deputy mayor of Nice, now wants to equip his city with a facial recognition system. This is particularly to allow for optimal security of the Nice fan-zone during Euro 2016 (June 10 – July 10).
The Nice Big Browser
Chrisitian Estrosi presented this device at the Urban Supervision Center (CSU). In the room, positioned in front of their screens, were two police officers. They demonstrated the system.
Passersby arrive at the entrance of the fan-zone located at the Théâtre des Verdures. Even before crossing the security gate, the facial recognition software activates. Red squares appear on the screen and in the middle a green square. A potential danger is detected.
The operator gives a physical description of the person to be apprehended. The on-site agents are alerted, and they neutralize the individual in question. And that’s that. “This device will allow us to prevent many incidents,” affirms Chrisitian Estrosi.
How does this system work? The cameras are linked to police databases. If an individual is registered, they will be immediately identified by the software, even if they try to disguise themselves or hide their face under a cap and sunglasses.
Awaiting a Green Light
But for the system to be operational, the Metropolis needs the Government’s approval. As Christian Estrosi pointed out, “The use of these data raises fundamental freedom issues. Therefore, legislative evolution is necessary because we don’t fight a war with peace laws.” He sought to reassure the skeptics, “Those who aren’t registered have nothing to fear.”
The deputy mayor sent a letter to the Prime Minister, Manuel Valls, in order to make things evolve. He hopes to discuss this subject in the National Assembly in the upcoming weeks.
