In recent weeks, we have seen harrowing terrorist attacks against France, Lebanon, Turkey and other countries, including the bombing of a passenger Russian airline. These attacks have resulted in tragic loss of life. 2016 will require added attention to counter-terrorism and security by all government agencies, including border agencies such as Customs. Such agencies are actively involved in border security by managing the movement of goods, people and means of transport across borders, sharing intelligence, and working closely with other law enforcement agencies. A growing number of border agencies have a broadened security mandate that covers the enforcement of travel bans. This is particularly important considering the threats posed by the foreign terrorist fighter phenomenon. In particular, Customs is focusing on five key work areas, namely passenger controls, improvised explosive devises, export controls, small arms and light weapons and terrorist financing.
With respect to airline security, physical inspection of a traveler and a travel document is one part of border controls. The use of secure electronic data, such as Advanced Passenger Information and Passenger Name Records, is also vital. PNR data is generated during the booking or buying of an air ticket and API data is generated during check in. Examination of such data should be applied before the departure of the aircraft to enable relevant border agencies to perform risk-based targeted controls on passengers and the goods they are carrying. Many governments now require the submission by airlines of API/PNR data, allowing responsible authorities, such as Customs, immigration or police, to assess the risk posed by travelers as part of efforts to combat terrorism. I encourage governments to adopt and use API/PNR data actively.
Exchange of API and PNR data is also vital. The G7 has called on the international community to collaborate closely and exchange relevant information, particularly related to airlines operating on their territory of advance passenger information in order to detect travel of terrorists. I could not agree more.