4th OSCE-wide Seminar on Passenger Data Exchange

This event marks the second consecutive joint initiative in this area between the OSCE and UNOCT and is a direct result of the Biennial Action Plan for 2019-2021 signed in September 2019.

The main purpose of this event is to further support States in developing Advance Passenger Information (API)/Passenger Name Record (PNR) systems and provide opportunities to identify potential partnerships.

Therefore, the seminar will focus on the following five areas:

1. Use of API/PNR for public health in times of crisis 
2. Building a Passenger Information Unit – different models and good practices;
3. Collecting and analysing the data – how to connect with airlines, and options for analysing the data
4. Presentation of the CT Travel Programme and the goTravel software
5. Informal working group (IWG) on API/PNR – experiences

The Seminar is targeted at expert-level officials who either will be or have been involved in the establishment of national API/PNR systems; Representatives from national targeting centres and/or Passenger Information Units; Private companies, in particular airlines, and IT service providers offering API/PNR systems; International and Regional Organizations offering additional support and assistance to States in the implementation of Resolution 2396.

Resolution 2396 was adopted in December 2017 and prompted by an increased risk of returning foreign terrorist fighters following the loss of territory by terrorist groups in conflict zones. Resolution 2396 builds upon previous resolutions 2178 (2014) and 2309 (2016), and obliges Member States to:

1. require airlines operating in their territories to provide Advance Passenger Information (API) to the appropriate national authorities; and report any movements of FTFs by sharing this information with the relevant States; and ensure API is analysed by all relevant authorities
2. develop the capability to collect, process and analyse Passenger Name Record (PNR) data; and ensure it is used by and shared with all their competent national authorities; and encourage the sharing of this data with relevant or concerned States.

Additionally the Resolution calls explicitly on international and regional organizations to:

1. improve coordination and identify areas where Member States need technical assistance, resources and capacity building in order to implement such capabilities.