Interoperability (IOP)

Overview

On 20 May, 2019, the European Union adopted two regulations on interoperability (IOP). They provide for the development of four new interoperability components, to be made available by the EU to the Schengen Member States and the associated countries to support the implementation of interoperability:

• European Search Portal – ESP
  Makes it possible to run simultaneous searches in multiple EU information systems

• Common Identity Repository – CIR
  Provides a shared container for storing biometric and alphanumeric identity data from EU information systems

• Multiple Identity Detector – MID
  Enables the detection of possible multiple identities. These identities can then be linked to one another and the information saved in the different EU information systems

• Shared Biometric Matching Service – sBMS
  Makes it possible to cross-check biometric data from several EU information systems

The ESP can be used to consult alphanumeric identity data (e.g. surname, first name and date of birth) and biometric identity data (fingerprints and facial images) in the CIR, which includes the following EU information systems: the EES (Entry/Exit System), the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System), the VIS (Visa Information System), Eurodac, the SIS (Schengen Information System), Europol and Interpol databases.

When suspected multiple identities are identified automatically using MID data from two systems, but these identities cannot be attributed definitively to one and the same person, the MID match must be verified manually by the relevant authorities.

Implementation in Switzerland

The implementation of Interoperability (IOP) regulations is a coordinated effort between the Confederation and the cantons. Key objectives include the technical connection of national systems to the central EU components (ESP, CIR, MID, and sBMS) and the verification of MID links. Given their respective mandates, SEM and fedpol manage separate but closely aligned projects. Switzerland continues to synchronize its implementation efforts with the European Union's overarching roadmap.