Brussels, Belgium

 

The need for tighter security and safer trade has never been higher. Furthermore, recent leaps forward in technology have made the role of those who defend our borders all the more difficult in the fight against crime. Increased threats to the international goods supply chain, combined with the importance of capacity building in the international Customs community, the need for a solution which combines the two has never been greater.

 

The development of biometrics as a response to this combined need demonstrates how innovative technology can combat this growing threat. Used for thousands of years, biometric solutions can be utilised for authentication or verification purposes.

 

This event promises to give you an insight into the importance and possibilities offered by biometrics, a centuries-old solution adapted and modernised to suit the challenges and threats of the 21st Century.

 

How will biometrics help Customs in ensuring strong trade facilitation whilst maintaining a secure trade network? What can we gain from biometrics? What impact will it have on the world of Customs? Will this technology increase or decrease privacy?

 

All these questions shall be addressed at WCO Biometrics 2005. Major industry leaders, Customs executives and biometrics and security experts, will consider the challenges and debate the serious questions which this subject poses.