Vëzhgimit

Vëzhgimit, literally meaning surveillance or monitoring in Albanian, refers to the practice of systematically watching, tracking, or recording individuals, groups, or activities to obtain information, ensure security, or guide decision-making. The term is derived from the verb vëzhgoj (to observe). The noun vëzhgimi denotes the practice itself and its outcomes; in usage, vëzhgimit appears in phrases describing various forms of the activity. In practice, vëzhgimi can be direct (on-site observation) or indirect (use of technologies such as cameras, sensors, network monitoring, or data analytics). It is widely used in law enforcement, border control, workplace safety, healthcare, market research, and digital services.

Legal and ethical considerations accompany vëzhgimit. It raises privacy concerns and is regulated by data protection and privacy laws in many jurisdictions, requiring principles of necessity, proportionality, transparency, and purpose limitation. Oversight by independent authorities and mechanisms for redress are common components of responsible vëzhgimi practices.

Common forms include passive versus active and physical versus digital surveillance. Digital forms include CCTV surveillance, online activity monitoring, location tracking, and metadata analysis. Security risks include abuse of power, discrimination, and chilling effects. The impact of vëzhgimit can deter crime, improve safety, and support service delivery, but it may erode civil liberties if unchecked. Best practices emphasize a clear purpose, limited data retention, informed consent where appropriate, and regular audits.