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Summarised by Centrist
The government is in negotiations with the United States over a new border security agreement that could expand the sharing of New Zealanders’ biometric data.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed officials are discussing the requirements and scope of an Enhanced Border Security Partnership (EBSP).
The United States has given the 42 countries in its Visa Waiver Program until the end of the year to conclude negotiations or risk losing visa-free travel access for stays of up to 90 days.
New Zealand already participates in biometric data sharing under the Five Eyes “Migration Five” framework with Australia, Canada, the US and the United Kingdom.
Critics say EBSP agreements could go further, potentially allowing automated access to national databases.
The government has not specified what categories of information might be shared, what safeguards would apply, or whether Parliament or the public would be consulted before any agreement is finalised.
Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters’ office did not comment.
Council of Civil Liberties chair Thomas Beagle raised concerns about long-term data control once information is transferred overseas.
Māori data sovereignty expert Dr Karaitiana Taiuru questioned how sensitive information, including police records, would be treated if shared internationally.
The Privacy Commission declined to comment on whether it had been consulted.
Legal academic Gehan Gunasekara acknowledged New Zealand’s limited leverage in negotiations with larger partners.
Several other countries, including the UK, Israel and Bahrain, have signed or are negotiating similar agreements with the US.
