Show notes
In this episode of the International Risk Podcast, host Dominic Bowen is joined by Simeon de Brouwer, policy advisor at European Digital Rights (EDRi), Europe’s largest network of digital rights organisations. Simeon explains the controversial EU proposal known as “Chat Control” and explores what mandatory scanning of private communications could mean for encryption, privacy, security and child protection across Europe.We discuss:What the EU’s Chat Control proposal would actually require messaging and hosting platforms to scan for child sexual abuse material and groomingWhy scanning everyone’s private communications raises fundamental questions about the presumption of innocence and proportionalityHow client-side scanning could affect end-to-end encryption on services such as WhatsApp and SignalThe risks of false positives, including innocent communications being flagged, accounts being suspended and private material being reviewed by authoritiesWhy mass scanning could create opportunities for “function creep”, allowing surveillance infrastructure introduced for child protection to be expanded to terrorism, organised crime or political dissentWhy encryption is essential not only for ordinary users, but also for journalists, human rights defenders and businessesHow criminals can adapt their behaviour to evade automated detection, potentially leaving the most sophisticated perpetrators beyond the reach of the technologyThe tension between privacy and child safety, and why EDRi argues that the two do not have to be mutually exclusiveWhat alternative approaches could better protect children online, including addressing how platforms enable adults to find and contact young peopleWhere negotiations over Chat Control currently stand, and what could happen as the European Parliament, Council and European Commission continue negotiationsWhy Simeon is concerned about Europe’s broader push to simplify digital regulation, and the risk that weakening protections in the name of innovation could ultimately create new security and privacy risksThe International Risk Podcast brings you conversations with global experts, frontline practitioners, and senior decision-makers who are shaping how we understand and respond to international risk. From geopolitical instability and organised crime to cybersecurity threats and hybrid warfare, each episode explores the forces transforming our world and what smart leaders must do to navigate them. Whether you’re a board member, policymaker, or risk professional, The International Risk Podcast delivers actionable insights, sharp analysis, and real-world stories that matter.Dominic Bowen is the host of The International Risk Podcast and Europe’s leading expert on international risk and crisis management. As Head of Strategic Advisory and Partner at one of Europe’s leading risk management consulting firms, Dominic advises CEOs, boards, and senior executives across the continent on how to prepare for uncertainty and act with intent. He has spent decades working in war zones, advising multinational companies, and supporting Europe’s business leaders. Dominic is the go-to business advisor for leaders navigating risk, crisis, and strategy; trusted for his clarity, calmness under pressure, and ability to turn volatility into competitive advantage. Dominic equips today’s business leaders with the insight and confidence to lead through disruption and deliver sustained strategic advantage.Tell us what you liked!