#GovernmentControl

[margaretlsgp]

State Senate unanimously confirms Russell Redding as Secretary of Agriculture [Video]

#GovernmentAssistance #GovernmentControl #GovernmentRelations #SeniorsGovernmentAssistance #Government Assistance #Government Control #Government Relations #Seniors Government Assistance

[scifimovieguide]

Demolition Man

In a sterile future where swearing is banned and Taco Bell reigns supreme, a cryogenically frozen cop is thawed out to stop a 90s psycho — and chaos ensues. Violence, satire, and three mysterious seashells.

Get the lowdown at ScifiMovieGuide.com

[obsidianquill]

A state of emergency is always the prelude to something worse.

— Günter Grass

[ptitolier]

AI Surveillance in Europe

Exceptions to a general ban

The European Union and AI Surveillance: A Step Forward or a Step into Dystopia?

📅 Based on the article from Journal Mapa, January 24, 2025, by Théophile Fagundes.

Introduction: A New Era of AI Surveillance in Europe

On February 2, 2025, a new European law on artificial intelligence will come into effect, bringing major changes to how law enforcement uses AI-powered surveillance. While the EU had initially positioned itself as a global leader in ethical AI regulation, this latest move raises significant concerns about mass surveillance, civil liberties, and the power of private tech firms in shaping law enforcement.

At the heart of this legislation is a contradiction: the EU officially bans biometric identification and emotion recognition in public spaces but has introduced several key exceptions under pressure from France and its European allies, including Italy, Hungary, and Portugal. These exceptions open the door to real-time facial recognition, predictive policing, and increased corporate involvement in surveillance technology, triggering debates about whether Europe is drifting toward an Orwellian model of governance.

What Does the New Law Change?

Facial Recognition and Protest Surveillance

One of the most controversial aspects of the law is the use of real-time facial recognition technology in public spaces. While EU lawmakers claim this will only be used for investigating serious crimes, activists, journalists, and civil rights organizations argue that it will disproportionately target political activists, climate protesters, and marginalized communities.

In recent years, countries like France and Hungary have pushed for broader surveillance powers, justifying them through concerns over terrorism and public order. The new AI law will allow law enforcement to monitor large gatherings, including protests and demonstrations, under the pretext of "national security."

Predictive Policing: Science or Speculation?

The law also legitimizes the use of predictive policing, a controversial technology that uses AI to analyze past crime data and predict where future crimes might occur. While its proponents argue that it enhances efficiency and crime prevention, critics point to serious biases in these algorithms, which often result in racial profiling and over-policing of specific communities.

Predictive policing has been tested in several European cities, often with mixed results. Studies have shown that these AI models tend to reinforce existing biases in law enforcement rather than provide truly objective predictions. As a result, many experts fear that instead of reducing crime, predictive AI may actually contribute to systemic discrimination.

The Growing Role of Private Companies

Another key issue is the increasing involvement of private technology firms in law enforcement. Under the new law, European governments can outsource AI surveillance technologies to private corporations, raising concerns about data privacy, lack of transparency, and profit-driven motives.

Tech giants and AI startups have lobbied heavily for these provisions, seeing a lucrative market in supplying governments with surveillance tools. However, this raises a fundamental question: should law enforcement responsibilities be handed over to private companies that are not directly accountable to the public?

A Threat to Civil Liberties?

According to Investigate Europe, this new law does not strengthen protections for citizens—instead, it expands the reach of state surveillance.

Critics warn that these measures blur the line between public safety and authoritarian control. Who decides what constitutes a "threat" to national security? Who ensures that AI-powered surveillance is not misused for political repression?

The European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) has repeatedly raised concerns about the risks of mass biometric surveillance, arguing that there are no sufficient safeguards to prevent abuse. Yet, despite these warnings, the law has moved forward, supported by governments that prioritize security over privacy.

Are We Entering Orwell’s Future?

The parallels with George Orwell’s 1984 are hard to ignore.

In Orwell’s dystopian vision, constant surveillance was a tool of absolute control, erasing any notion of privacy or personal freedom. While Europe’s AI surveillance is not yet at that level, the current trajectory suggests a slow erosion of democratic safeguards in the name of security.

The argument often used by governments is:

"If you have nothing to hide, you have nothing to fear."

However, history has repeatedly shown that surveillance measures intended for "security" often end up being weaponized against political opposition, journalists, and activists.

France’s Use of AI Surveillance in the 2024 Olympics

During the 2024 Paris Olympics, France experimented with AI-powered video analysis to detect "suspicious behavior" in real time. The system, initially promoted as a way to prevent terrorist threats, ended up being used to monitor protests and public gatherings. This serves as a real-world case study of how surveillance measures can quickly be expanded beyond their original purpose.

Hungary’s Crackdown on Political Dissent

Hungary has already increased its use of AI surveillance tools to track political dissidents and journalists. The new EU law will give governments even more legal justification to expand these practices, making it harder to challenge surveillance abuses.

Balancing AI and Democracy: Is There a Middle Ground?

Not all AI surveillance is inherently bad. Used correctly, AI can help solve crimes, prevent terrorist attacks, and even protect human rights (e.g., tracking human trafficking networks). However, the concern is that without strict oversight, these tools will be exploited by those in power.

Possible Safeguards:

Strict Judicial Oversight: Courts should have a mandatory role in approving AI-based surveillance requests.

Transparency & Public Accountability: Citizens must be informed when and how AI surveillance is used.

Independent Ethics Committees: AI deployments in law enforcement should be monitored by non-governmental organizations.

Public Debate on Surveillance Laws: Instead of fast-tracking AI regulations, governments should open these discussions to the public.

Is Europe at a Crossroads?

The EU’s AI surveillance law represents a turning point in the balance between security and freedom. While officials present it as a necessary tool for modern policing, critics argue that it undermines fundamental rights and opens the door to widespread surveillance abuse.

Europe has long prided itself on being a champion of digital rights and ethical AI regulation. However, with this new law, it risks drifting toward a model where surveillance is normalized under the guise of public safety.

Are we moving toward an era of AI-powered authoritarianism, or can democratic safeguards still prevent mass surveillance?

Further Reading: Orwell vs. Verne – Is Technological Progress a Promise or a Trap?

To explore this topic further, read my article on Orwell and Verne:

P'tit Tôlier

Essayist & Popularizer. I analyze the world through accessible philosophical essays. Complex ideas, explained simply—to help us think about our times.

[rockinjohnny]

As digital payments become commonplace, tipping frustrates some consumers | PBS News

[news-of-news]

New License Requirement for WhatsApp Group Admins: A Creeping Invasion of Your Privacy

In a shocking move, WhatsApp group administrators are now being forced to register and pay a fee to the government in order to continue managing their groups. This draconian regulation requires all group admins to obtain a license from the Post and Telecommunication Regulatory Authority, making it easier for authorities to track and control online communication.

What does this mean for users? Group admins will now face the burden of costly registration, and the government will have unprecedented control over private conversations and group activities. Whether you run a family chat, a community group, or a business forum, your every move could be monitored.

This new rule is part of a broader push to regulate and restrict digital spaces, raising concerns about privacy, freedom of expression, and the growing power of authorities to control what happens in private online spaces. Prepare for a digital world where your freedom to communicate may come with a price—and a license.

#WhatsAppAdminLicense #GovernmentControl #PrivacyInvasion #OnlineCensorship #SurveillanceState #DigitalFreedomUnderThreat #OnlineRegulation #BigBrotherIsWatching #WhatsAppUsers #TechNews2024 #WhatsAppBann #WhatsAppBann  #NOFN #NEWS_OF_NEWS #NOFN_News_Of_News

[ladookhotnikov]

Let us ban words, terrorists use them

Telegram’s popularity surged dramatically after Pavel Durov’s arrest. The app skyrocketed in the ranking of top US applications. It jumped from 18th to the 8th place of the most popular apps in the United States. Besides, it’s the second most popular app in the US social networking category. 

The app visibility also increased in France, though it hadn’t been widely used there before. It soared into the top-3 of best apps in France. Thus, it secured the third spot overall and number one position in the Social Networking category. 

The growing public skepticism towards government actions is evident. Is it a form of protest against threats to digital privacy? Ironically, targeting Durov, the government has achieved the opposite effect! The arrest has propelled Telegram into the spotlight and boosted its user base. 

The #FreePavel trend is circulating in all social networks. 

Pavel Durov once wrote: "Let us ban words, terrorists use them", highlighting the absurdity of excessive control disguised as security measures. 

This approach seems to resonate with the public as people are growing more cautious of censorship.

[organicbeing]

"Rights vs. Permission: Understanding the Role of Government in Our Freedoms"

If you have a right to do something, should you need to ask for permission? This question strikes at the heart of some of our most cherished freedoms. Take the right to bear arms, for instance. If we have the constitutional right to keep and bear arms, why do we need a concealed carry permit? These two concepts seem to be at odds with one another. Let’s consider our founding fathers, George…

[tmarshconnors]

National Service or Volunteer?

The Conservatives’ plan to bring back mandatory national service is absolutely outrageous. Are they having a laugh? The idea that 18-year-olds would be forced to either join the military full-time or volunteer one weekend every month for community service is beyond ridiculous. Nobody can force me or anyone else to do a damn thing. Even though this may sound hypocrite as I have nothing but my upmost respect for the Armed Forces but I think this sounds like a desperate ploy to prepare for a potential war with Russia, and it’s infuriating.

First off, the notion of compulsory service is fundamentally against the principles of freedom and individual choice. We live in a democratic society where people should have the autonomy to make their own decisions about their lives and careers. Forcing young adults into military service or mandatory community work is an authoritarian move that has no place in modern Britain. This isn’t the 1950s anymore; we shouldn't be dragged back to a time of compulsory conscription.

And let’s talk about the military aspect. Expecting 18-year-olds to put their lives on the line without any say is absolutely insane. If someone wants to join the military, it should be out of their own free will, driven by personal conviction and desire to serve the country. It shouldn’t be because they’re left with no other choice. This smells of an attempt to bolster military ranks in anticipation of some geopolitical conflict, probably eyeing tensions with Russia. Using our youth as pawns in this game is completely unacceptable.

As for the so-called “volunteering” one weekend a month, let’s call it what it is: forced labor. Volunteering, by definition, should be voluntary. Imposing this on young people, many of whom might already be juggling education, part-time jobs, and other responsibilities, is an unfair and unnecessary burden. It’s a lazy way for the government to shift responsibilities onto the shoulders of the youth instead of investing in proper community services and social programs.

Furthermore, this plan doesn’t even consider the diverse aspirations and ambitions of young people. Some might want to travel, pursue higher education, or start their careers right away. Forcing them into national service could derail these plans and have long-lasting negative impacts on their futures.

The bottom line is this: the idea of mandatory national service is a gross violation of personal freedom and an underhanded tactic to prepare for military conflicts at the expense of our youth. It’s an outdated, authoritarian policy that has no place in a free and democratic society. If the Conservatives think they can push this through without massive backlash, they’re sorely mistaken.

[usnewsper-politics]

Trump Opposes Digital Money: What It Means for Banks and Your Wallet #accessibility #AlanGreenspan #Bitcoin #blockchaintechnology #CBDCS #centralbankdigitalcurrency #decentralizedcurrencies #economicpolicies #efficiency #financialinstitutions #financialsystem #futureofmoney #globalfinance #governmentcontrol #governments #individualfreedom #nationaldigitalcurrency #privacy #privatebanks #Security #stateissueddigitalcurrencies

[immunobiz]

🤔🇨🇦🙏🇨🇦🤔🇨🇦🙏🇨🇦🤔🇨🇦🙏🇨🇦

This liberal government is too ashamed to tell Canadians how they have destroyed our once beautiful country and economy… RIP CANADA!

YOUR THOUGHTS ON THIS MADNESS??

😊SHARE THIS VIDEO OUT & POST YOUR HONEST COMMENTS!

___________________________

🤔🇨🇦🙏🇨🇦🤔🇨🇦🙏🇨🇦🤔🇨🇦🙏🇨🇦

Ce gouvernement libéral a trop honte pour dire aux Canadiens comment ils ont détruit notre pays et notre économie autrefois beaux... RIP CANADA !

VOS PENSÉES SUR CETTE FOLIE ??

Si tout le monde peut s'il vous plaît prendre une petite seconde pour vous abonner à notre lien YouTube dans la bio principale, nous vous en serions vraiment reconnaissants !

😊PARTAGEZ CETTE VIDÉO ET POSTEZ VOS COMMENTAIRES HONNÊTES !

🤔🇨🇦🙏🇨🇦🤔🇨🇦🙏🇨🇦🤔🇨🇦🙏🇨🇦

[margaretlsgp]

Interview: In Afghanistan, Buying the Scalpel for Your Own Childs Birth [Video]

[what-the-hell-do-i-do]

Get your passport in order. Be sure you have the "old" forms (before the non-binary option was available) to avoid any hold up in processing.

US Passport Forms

[rockinjohnny]

Nick Clegg, No to ID cards: Political Slot - Channel 4

[tonedeafmusiq]

Falling In Reverse: The Government's Hidden Agenda! Explore the deep message behind cancel culture and government control! This clip highlights the dangers of being 'deleted' for stepping out of line. Essential viewing for those questioning authority! #GovernmentControl #CancelCulture #StayWoke ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ Don't Forget To Like, Comment, And Subscribe For More Music!: https://www.youtube.com/@ToneDeafMusiq/?sub_confirmation=1 ✅Stay Connected With Me: 👉 Instagram: https://ift.tt/p7nV1Tb 👉 Tiktok: https://ift.tt/MIOWXCL ========================= ✅ Other Videos You Might Be Interested In Watching: 📀 Breaking Down ‘Service & Self’ - A Tribute To Veterans by DAX ft. Tom McDonald https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sM3FovuRDiw 📀 Ren’s 1M Subs: A Journey That Inspires the World https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yUBmR9CF--4 📀 Kendrick Lamar’s Master Plan: How He Defeated Drake https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EbBETvHWy-w 📀 The Story Behind Wynand Fourie’s Love Healing ft. The Renegades https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dOgYiNRIi40 ========================= ✅ About Tone Deaf Musiq: “Tone Deaf Musiq” takes the bass and blends the lyrics to hear what you, “the people”, want to hear. In an era of evolving music, our taste changes, but the chords don't! I am the one and only Tone Deaf! When the music is certified, we say it....and if the producer lied....we are NOT going to replay it! Let’s walk through all the different genres of music, compare styles and take a deep dive into what the artist reveals to us. Join me in a journey of the trending, the unheard, the old and the new as we find real music that makes us stay in the moment. Nothing is off limits and if the music moves me, and I promise you, I’ll break down what it means to me and then let’s see how you respond. Music raised me and we all can’t deny that it’s a major influence on all of us. For Collaboration and Business inquiries, please use the contact information below: 📩 Email: tonedeafmusiq@gmail.com 🔔 Subscribe to my channel for more great music: https://www.youtube.com/@ToneDeafMusiq/?sub_confirmation=1 ========================= #FallingInReverse #RonnieRadke #RockMusic #AlternativeRock #PostHardcore #Metalcore #PunkRock #Emo #SceneMusic #RockBand #MusicVideo #LiveMusic #Concert #MusicLovers #BandLife #RockFans #MusicCommunity #RockCulture #RockLegends #MusicInspiration #RockOn #MusicAddict #RockNRoll #MusicLife #RockVibes #RockNation #RockAndRoll #MusicJourney #RockStars #RockAnthems Copyright Notice: The Copyright Laws of the United States recognizes a "fair use" of copyrighted content. The videos and this Youtube channel in general may contain certain copyrighted works that were not specifically authorized to be used by the copyright holder(s), but which we believe in good faith are protected by federal law and the fair use doctrine for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, parody, or research, is not an infringement of copyright. All video is for educational purposes only. We believe this constitutes a fair use of any such copyrighted material as provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law. © Tone Deaf Musiq via Tone Deaf Musiq https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZLAqS6CL8QYYZVpereT1bw December 10, 2024 at 07:00AM

[stefaniaczech]

🚨 Anonymous Has a Message for Elon Musk – A Warning & Reflection #Anonymous #ElonMusk #Tesla #SpaceX #Neuralink #ArtificialIntelligence #Future #Technology #Innovation #Hacktivism #Cryptocurrency #Bitcoin #Ethereum #Starlink #CyberSecurity #Privacy #Surveillance #DystopianFuture #SpaceTravel #AI #Transhumanism #MachineLearning #SocialMediaManipulation #BigTech #GovernmentControl #DigitalFreedom #CyberWarfare #Automation #ElonMuskControversy #TechRevolution #HumanRights #BillionaireTech #Society #ClimateChange #ArtificialConsciousness #BillionaireClass #SpaceRace #FutureOfAI #TechWarning #AnonymousMessage #StayInformed