Border traffic risk assessment

Abstract

Risk based border control in general and the station profiles of border crossing points (BCPs) in particular are based on those risk indicators that define the risks specific to the given border area. The risks – defined by these indicators – can be derived both from domestic or foreign sources and regarding their validity they may incorporate stable, but more frequently slowly or quickly changing components. Risk factors specified accordingly, serve as the basis to create the risk profile of BCPs and border sections, however they can inform regional or national risk analyses as well. The ultimate purpose of these profiles is to draft a comprehensive “risk landscape” for those border agencies that are facing these challenges in their area of competence. This article reviews the possible elements of such risk profiles and how these risks may be grouped. It will also focus on the advanced information systems and their role in risk reduction and trade facilitation by their positive impact on the BCPs’ permeability. The frequent revision of such profile provides up-to-date information about the border situation and at the same time, the deployment of resources available can respond to the risks gathered and analysed accordingly. If the border control is planned and arranged on a risk and intelligence based manner it will enhance efficiency while, in the same time increases permeability.