A New York Times investigation into the use of Chinese technology in Ecuador’s surveillance program found that while the police analyze the footage for illegal activity, it is also sent to the country’s domestic intelligence agency, which has a reputation for engaging in political violence against opposition members. Ecuador’s program benefits from China’s focus on and growth of the technology that it developed as a result of its focus on expanding the surveillance state, making it more affordable for those looking to adopt into their domestic arsenal. Now, 18 countries utilize Chinese-made intelligent monitoring systems. “They’re selling this as the future of governance; the future will be all about controlling the masses through technology,” Freedom House Research Director Adrian Shahbaz. (Registration may be required to access this story.)
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