Given the robust ethical and authorized duty to ensure effective fortification of fundamental rights in the context of developing technology risks, including threats posed by artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled facial recognition, national and international lawmakers should develop policy strategies that allow their constituents to understand and influence the deployment of this technology.

Facial recognition technology (FRT) has emerged as a controversial method to recognize individuals of interest in investigations. FRT leverages a uniquely sensitive biometric trait that is both immutable and unprotected to the public, meaning unfettered use of the technology in law enforcement creates risk for human rights.

Even in countries with a strong commitment to civilian liberties, FRT-specific regulations are essential to enforce human rights. Key to address is the knowledge gap between trendsetters and the public, as well as their elected representatives, which creates a concerning information asymmetry. Future approaches should be developed to bridge this gap and create legislation driven by informed public preferences and specific to the risks posed by FRT to ensure the respect of human rights in the era of AI.