The rapid evolution of spyware technologies often outpaces defensive measures, leaving human rights defenders in a perpetual struggle in catching up and combatting this invisible digital authoritarian pandemic.
Research will address the lack of technical approaches to spyware use and abuse in Africa and addressing topics such as; Trends, emerging tools, and tactics, mainstreaming applicable human rights and humanitarian law, and investigation and accountability frameworks. Conduct regular updates and knowledge transfer with the civil society and translating the knowledge to relevant policy and advocacy efforts to mitigate commercial spyware harm.
For 2025/26 fiscal year, our research work will focus on advancing and supporting the objectives of the coalition based on the established thematic work program. The themes we are focusing on now will be;
Research and investigation into commercial and commercial spyware use and operations in East & West Africa-stories, use cases, and operations.
Insights into government mass surveillance programs including city-wide CCTV, social media mining, biometrics and National Identity Card programs.
Intelligence report and country analysis of spyware use, technical trends, and outlook to inform joint civil society advocacy.
Produce guides and workshops to support CSOs with investigative techniques and tools to conduct investigation.
Research into the development and analysis of new tools and techniques to better prepare stakeholders on responses.
Policy draft and advisory to support engagement and public discourse