Risk management based on the analysis of nonverbal communication in focus of OSCE-organized regional workshop in Turkmenistan

An OSCE-organized regional training workshop on risk management based on the analysis of nonverbal communication, including emotional facial and body expressions, took place from 12 to 14 July 2022.

The workshop brought together, online and in-person, around 80 officials from relevant border and security agencies of the five Central Asian countries. Organized as part of the Centre’s ongoing efforts to support Central Asian countries to combat terrorism and transnational threats, the event aimed to enhance the knowledge of border security and management agencies about different areas of human behaviour and methods for identifying and mitigating the risks associated with the human factor.

In his welcoming speech, John MacGregor, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat noted: “In a digital age, undoubtedly, the wide use of modern technology is instrumental in preventing and countering terrorism. Paired with modern technology, risk management based on the analysis of nonverbal communication is proven effective.”

International experts, drawing on their two-decade experience and expertise, demonstrated the practical application of academic concepts of biometrics, kinesics and proxemics to the security field while being mindful of body language specific to any given culture. In addition, the experts also discussed the use of technologies in the process of surveillance and counter-surveillance at international border crossings and the intelligence technologies that provide for enhanced security.

Representatives from Central Asian countries learnt about proven analytical tools designed to detect deceit based on micro-facial expressions. The experts stressed that at a busy border crossing point with the intensive movement of people and goods across the border, criminals often attempt to conceal their mal-intent by controlling their emotions, facial experiences and body language and cross the border undetected. The agenda included practice-oriented sessions on how to see, interpret, and process information in the visual world, held with the use of digital platforms.

Based on the participants’ recommendations and ideas, the Centre plans to organize a follow-up regional event in the last quarter of 2022.

The workshop is organized within the framework of the Centre’s extrabudgetary multi-donor project “Strengthening State Border Service Capacities of Turkmenistan” and supported financially by the Government of Japan.