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[wep_schedule layout=1]For further details see Site Visits page. In a rapidly digitizing world, borders are no longer just physical checkpoints—they are digital gateways. Yet, as governments and institutions invest in biometrics, e-visas, surveillance, and smart border systems, a critical question arises: Are we building border systems that serve people, or systems that simply process them? This young people-led congress will explore how technology […] Shaping the future requirements for traveller verification at European borders Tuesday 25th March 10.30am – 12.30pm The European Association of Airport & Seaport Police (EAASP) is one of the parties involved in the EU-funded project SafeTravellers which started January 2024 and will last for three years, and is leading this workshop. The project aims to […] Opening Keynotes and Welcome Messages to the 2025 World Border Security Congress Combatting transnational crime requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses international cooperation, robust legal frameworks, and the use of advanced technology. Transnational crime, which includes Drug Trafficking, Small Arms, Trafficking Illicit Goods, SOC, THB (Trafficking for Organ Harvesting), transcends national borders, making it imperative for countries to work together. Effective collaboration among law enforcement agencies, intelligence […] Welcome Reception (Invitation Only) Maritime borders present some of the most difficult and challenging environments facing agencies at the border worldwide. Archipelago nations like Indonesia and the Philippines have vast maritime territories with thousands of islands to surveil and patrol with limited resources and changing weather conditions. And maritime borders don’t stop at the coast. Multi-national river systems like […] Overview of the latest technologies and solutions for border management, security and protection Networking Coffee Break AI is increasingly playing a pivotal role in enhancing border security systems, utilizing advanced technologies to improve surveillance, threat detection, and data analysis. Currently, AI-driven solutions such as facial recognition, predictive analytics, and autonomous drones are employed to monitor borders efficiently and accurately. These systems can analyse vast amounts of data in real-time, enabling authorities […] It is widely acknowledged that interagency cooperation is the key to the effective border management, facilitating the movement of goods and people whilst simultaneously preventing bad actors from travelling and interdicting the movement of illicit goods. But what can be in practical terms on the ground to increase communication, share actionable intelligence and best practise. Delegate Lunch and Networking Break Developing cooperation and understanding between customs officers and border agencies is vital for effective border management and security. Agencies need to exchange intelligence regarding potential threats, smuggling activities, and other suspicious behaviours. This includes sharing data on cargo, travellers, and vehicles. Joint training, operations and inspections will improve effectiveness and working together on risk assessments, […] Overview of the latest technologies and solutions for border management, security and protection Any organisation, whatever is field of operation, is only as good as its staff. And investment in that human capital is one of the most valuable activities that any organisation can participate in. Training promotes the ethics and ideals of the organisation as well as well as improving the skills and knowledge to develop sound […] In the spirit of interagency cooperation this workshop will facilitate the sharing of on the ground experience, real life case studies and share actionable intelligence on the movement of drugs, illicit goods, illegal waste, heritage goods, wildlife trafficking and modus operandi used to enable these trades. Networking Reception sponsored by SITA Border management challenges are increasingly influenced by irregular migration trends driven by economic instability, armed conflict, environmental changes, and social unrest. Conflicts in regions such as the Middle East, Africa, and parts of Central America have led to persistent refugee crises, prompting many individuals to seek asylum in neighbouring countries or distant nations. Additionally, the […] Moderated by: Simon Deignan, Programme Management Officer / UNOCT – Countering Terrorist Travel Programme – CTTP – Complementarity of international obligations on passenger data and International Human Rights Law – Dr Arturo Laurent, Legal Officer, Terrorism Prevention Branch / UNODC – Supporting Member State with development of compliant structures, procedures and information handling – roles of UNOCT and UNODC/AIRCOP […] Digital travel and the implementation of digital borders are revolutionizing the travel experience by streamlining processes and enhancing security for both travellers and border agencies. Initiatives such as trusted traveller programs allow pre-approved individuals to pass through border controls with minimal delays, thereby improving efficiency and convenience. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (USCBP) is […] In the spirit of interagency cooperation this workshop will facilitate the sharing of on the ground experience, real life case studies and share actionable intelligence on the movement of trafficked human beings via planes , boats and vehicles and the various methods by which the traffickers enable this movement. Delegate Lunch and Networking Break Addressing cross-border terrorism and the dangers posed by foreign terrorist fighters necessitates a comprehensive strategy that prioritizes international collaboration, intelligence sharing, and robust policy frameworks. Countries must join together to improve border security, fortify legal measures, and disrupt funding channels for terrorism. Through the exchange of intelligence and resources, nations can more effectively identify and […]Site Visits
Africa Workshop: Digitizing Movement, Humanizing Travel
The Paradox of Progress: Why Smart Borders Aren’t Easing Travel for the Bona Fide Traveller
Paul Igbinere
Executive Director / African Young People Support Centre EAASP Workshop
OPENING KEYNOTE AND WELCOME
Combatting Transnational Crime
Implemented Measures by General Directorate “Border Police” in Order to Tackle Irregular Migration and Cross-border Crime
Anton Zlatanov
Chief Commissioner / General Directorate Border Police 
Illicit Trade and Its Impact on Nigeria’s Economy: The Hidden Threat
Babatunde Olomu
Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs (ACG) / Nigeria Customs Service, Post Clearance Audit (PCA) Headquarters 
Project Turnstone: Enhancing Online Investigations with Traffic Jam and the Sexual Identification Matrix
Colin Ward
Head of Global Engagement / Marinus Analytics, UK 
Strengthening the border governance in the Great Lake region
Gedeon Nibitanga
Project Assistant/Immigration and Border Governance / International Organization for Migration-IOM, Burundi 
Challenges and Strategies in Securing Nigeria's Borders Against Drug & Human Trafficking
George-Okoli Francisco Chidi
Director of Programs / West African Action Network on Small Arms (WAANSA) Nigeria 
Project Turnstone: Enhancing Online Investigations with Traffic Jam and the Sexual Identification Matrix
Helen Gordos
Modern Slavery and Organised Immigration Crime Training and Development Specialist / National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC), UK 
Illicit Trade and Its Impact on Nigeria’s Economy: The Hidden Threat
Sadiq Misbau Murtala
Chief Superintendent of Customs / Nigeria Customs Service Welcome Reception
Maritime and Big Rivers
Maritime Safety And Security – India’s Regional Perspective
ADG Anand Prakash Badola
Additional Director General / Indian Coast Guard 
Maritime, port and coastal border security: How can we best guard the coast and major ports from international organised criminal activities, including human trafficking and drug smuggling?
Dan Blanchford
Director Defence and National Security / Prevail Partners, UK 
Maritime Security and AI Integration: Enhancing Border Protection in the Arabian Gulf
Hasan Al-Sulaiti
Director of Operations / General Directorate of Coasts and Borders Security, Ministry of Interior, Qatar 
Maritime and Big Rivers: Bangladesh Perspective
Rear Admiral Md Ziaul Hoque
Director General / Bangladesh Coast Guard Technology Workshops Pt1
BorderForce: Innovation in Border Surveillance with Advanced Technologies
Andreas Kriechbaum-Zabini
Lead of Visual Sensing, Thematic Coordinator / AIT Austrian Institute of Technology 
Countering border threats, new technical synergy
Dmitrii Egorov
Business Development Director / Sens-Őr Solutions Kft, Hungary 
Transforming Customs Enforcement with Modern Spectroscopy
Jeremy Van Auker
Field Forensic Application Scientist / 908 Devices, USA 
Austria's journey to EES: Deploying a large scale border control project – lessons learned and future developments
Johanna Sperling
Consultant for biometrics systems and applications / secunet Security Networks AG, Division Homeland Security 
BorderForce: Innovation in Border Surveillance with Advanced Technologies
Jozef Kubinec
Innovation project advisor and procurement specialist / Ministry of Interior of the Slovak republic 
Strengthening the Eastern Shield: Baltic Drone Wall against hostile drones
Kirill Amelin
Research Engineer / Defsecintel Solutions, Estonia 
Smart Borders: Shaping the Future of Seamless Travel for Law Enforcement
Manu Niinioja
Law Enforcement Expert / Amadeus 
From Where’s Waldo to Who’s Waldo: Completing the Identity Picture with Biographic Intelligence
Rich Williams
Senior Account Executive / Babel Street 
Networking Coffee Break
Use of AI at the Border
Integrating Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) with sensor-based border security frameworks and artificial intelligence
Andrey Seleznev
Head of UNODC Programme Office in the Kyrgyz Republic / United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime 
AI and frontier technologies in the context of counter terrorism: threats, opportunities, and human rights considerations
Arianna Lepore
Coordinator, Next-Generation Terrorism and Strategic Responses Portfolio, Terrorism Prevention Branch / UNODC, Austria 
AI and frontier technologies in the context of counter terrorism: threats, opportunities, and human rights considerations
Dr. Wendy O’Brien
Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice Officer / UNODC, Austria 
The Realism of AI in Border Management - The Question Is Not How to Use AI, but Why
Michael Barrie
CEO / BIM e-Solutions, Luxembourg 
Artificial Intelligence in the Context of Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism and Terrorism: Challenges, Risks and Opportunities
Otabek Rashidov
Programme Officer, Action Against Terrorism Unit / Organization for Security & Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Interagency Cooperation and Collaboration
Enhancing information-sharing mechanisms to secure borders, counter terrorism and prevent crime through the application of privacy and data protection safeguards following a rule-of-law based approach
Suzanne Vatov
Legal Officer, Terrorism Prevention Branch / United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Delegate Lunch Break
Developing cooperation and understanding between customs officers and border agencies
Efficient and Effective way to fight against Counterfeit and Piracy at Borders
Dr. Ashraf Samsudeen
Senior Deputy Director of Customs / Sri Lanka Customs 
Strengthening operational cooperation between the customs administrations in European seaports and smaller river ports
Jeroen Engelberts
EUCAB Maritime Unit Leader / Customs Administration of The Netherlands 
From Cooperation to Integration: The EUCAB Perspective on Strengthening EU External Border Security
Martin Reuter
Head / EUCAB 
Closing the Gaps: Enhancing Strategic Awareness and Managing Blind Spots in Customs Operations and Border Security
Tasiu Sanusi Saulawa
Deputy Comptroller of Customs / Nigeria Customs Service 
Cooperation and coordination between Border Management stakeholders: Joint operations in West Africa
Tony Mihaitoaia
Senior Adviser, Border Management and Security / ICMPD, Romania Technology Workshops Pt2
Every Traveler Has a Risk Score: How Dynamic Risk Intelligence Is Transforming Border Security
Anthony Nwachukwu
Executive Director / Newworks Solution and Investment Limited, Nigeria 
Threats from the third demension
Christoph Suess
Sales & Partner Manager Special Security Solutions / Securiton Germany 
Land, Waterway and Coastal Border Surveillance Using Fiber-Optic Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS)
David Hill
Chief Technology Officer / Sintela, UK 
Integrated Solutions for Mobile Surveillance, Unmanned Aerial Systems and Counter-UAS
Dr. David Simpson
Senior Director for International Business Development / Teledyne Flir Defense, USA 
Integrated Solutions for Mobile Surveillance, Unmanned Aerial Systems and Counter-UAS
Eddy Butler
Senior Director, Technology Strategy / Teledyne Flir 
Digital Travel Credentials and the Biometric Border Corridor: From Vision to Scalable Reality
Frank Schmalz
Business Development and Portfolio Director / Veridos 
Supporting SIDs - Smart Solutions to Strengthen Seas and Borders
Ian Clarke
Director, Business Development / Sirius Insight, UK 
The Importance of Rapid Mobile Biometric and Biometric Binding for Modern Border Security
Jesus Aragon
CEO & Co-Founder / Identy Inc., USA Capacity Building
Dynamic, interoperable borders – the need for more flexible borders to respond to evolving and dynamic threats
Andy Smith
Director, Industry & Innovation / SITA, UK
Passenger and Cargo Control Programme (PCCP)
Bob Van den Berghe
Deputy Head, Passenger and Cargo Control Programme / United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) 
From Fortresses to Gateways: A New Border Paradigm
Col (Ret.) Adnane Kaab
Senior Consultant / STRATEGUS NK, Morocco
Development of Frontex own Canine Capability
Katalin Mausolf Pokornyi
Senior Capability Officer / Frontex – European Border and Coast Guard Agency Modus Operandi (Drugs and contraband)
Networking Reception
Border Management Challenges: Irregular Migration and Fluid Border Environments
Migration Flows Across Central America - Threats and Challenges
Alejandro Solano Ortiz
Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs / Government of Costa Rica 
Cyber-Enabled Irregular Migration and Human Trafficking in the CARICOM Region
Ariel De Freitas
Statistical Analyst / CARICOM IMPACS, Trinidad & Tobago 
Advancing Secure and Inclusive Border Management through Biometric Border Passes: Field Insights from Mozambique-Malawi
Chiara Pettinelli
Programme Officer – Immigration & Border Governance / IOM Mozambique 
Balancing Border Security and Protection: A Route-Based Approach to Mixed Movements
Valerie Svobodova
Chief of Asylum and Migration Section, Division of International Protection and Solutions / UNHCR UNOCT/CT Workshop
Complementarity of international obligations on passenger data and International Human Rights Law
Dr Arturo Laurent
Legal Officer, Terrorism Prevention Branch / United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime 
EECA IWG as a model for regional cooperation and sharing of best practices
Oksana Kurysheva
Associate Programme Officer / Border Security and Management Unit, Transnational Threats Department, OSCE 
Digital Travel & Digital Borders
EES / ETIAS Update
Marc Sulon
Head of Unit ‘Digital Schengen’ / European Commission – DG Migration and Home Affairs 
US Biometric Entry/Exit
Nael Samha
Executive Director of Passenger Targeting, Vetting, and Biometrics Systems, TASDP / US Customs & Border Protection 
In-vehicle, automated border control for land and sea
Nicolas Phan
Marketing Director – Travel & Transport / IDEMIA Public Security, France
Modus Operandi (Human Trafficking)
Movement, Methods and Networks: Human Smuggling Operations in Austria and the EU
Danijel Petkovic
Senior Investigator Human Smuggling, Criminal Intelligence Service Department / Human Smuggling, THB and special Investigations, Austria 
Trafficking at the Border: Operational Trends and Emerging Challenges for Border Management in the Asia–Pacific
Eun Jung Yi
Border & Migration Management Programme Manager / RSO Bali Process on People Smuggling, Trafficking in Persons, and Related Transnational Crime 
Delegate Lunch Break
Countering Terrorism
Update on Countering Terrorism
Cyril Gout
Executive Director Police Services pro tempore / INTERPOL, France 
Terrorism in the Sahel and the Risk of Spill over
Superintendent Ibrahim Imam Haafiz
National Imam/ Dept Head Religious Affairs Unit / Ghana Immigration Service
