Threats to data protection and sovereignty owing to surveillance through the ‘EU Digital Travel App’, the Commission’s Trojan horse

Question for written answer E-002238/2024
to the Commission
Rule 144
Christine Anderson (ESN), Mary Khan (ESN)

The planned roll-out of the 'EU Digital Travel App' and the associated digitalisation of travel documents raises significant concerns regarding the protection of citizens' rights and national sovereignty.

Firstly, the planned storage of sensitive information on mobile devices and the central administration via the app could lead to data breaches, especially in light of past cyber incidents.

Secondly, state pressure or organisational disadvantages could in future force citizens to use the app, even though it is formally considered voluntary.

Thirdly, the centralised management of these digital IDs could erode national sovereignty in sensitive security areas.

• 1.How will the Commission guarantee the full protection of personal data against misuse or hacking?
• 2.How will it be ensured that the supposedly voluntary use of digital travel documents does not become a de facto obligation in the long term?
• 3.What measures is the Commission taking to ensure that Member States' competences in relation to border controls and security are not further restricted?

Submitted: 23.10.2024