Intelligence Oversight Website of the Boell Foundation

Many democracies allow their national intelligence services to intercept communications data in enormous (and growing)quantities. Many people question the efficiency of bulk collection practices and their compatibility with fundamental rights. Others worry about its effect on the social fabric of democratic societies. Yet, most parliaments have expanded, rather than curtailed, surveillance powers. Courts also held that bulk collection is key for the provision of national security and can be legitimately used provided rigorous safeguards and effective oversight mechanisms are in place. Yet what exactly amounts to good practice in this regards? This interactive website offers a compendium of laudable examples of legal provisions and oversight practices.