Data quality in European law enforcement and border control cooperation: Findings from survey research

Abstract

This report presents findings from survey research on data quality and related institutional arrangements and processes, carried out between January and February 2023 among 65 national-level law enforcement and border control organizations in the European Union/Schengen area. Overall, findings suggest growing awareness of data quality issues and increasing professionalization of data quality practices. There is, however, considerable heterogeneity in approaches to data quality, raising concerns in light of the aggregation of data in EU-level systems where they are used for transnational law enforcement and border control purposes. From a practical perspective, findings indicate the need to further professionalize data quality as an everyday activity in law enforcement and border control. From a policy perspective, findings imply the need for further reform and harmonization, both on the national and the supranational level. From a research perspective, findings underline the need for more systematic academic engagement with data quality.