In the grand theatre of global politics, few acts generate as much anticipation, discussion, and trepidation as the introduction of a groundbreaking technology. Facial recognition technology – a potent concoction of artificial intelligence, complex algorithms, and modern surveillance – is the new lead actor waiting for its curtain call. However, as Europe stands on the precipice of integrating this technology into the fabric of its society, it is not the technology itself that is poised to redefine the narrative but the master puppeteers pulling the strings from behind the scenes.

The Tale of Two Faces

Enter the Janus-faced politician. Ancient Romans named Janus, their god of beginnings, transitions, and endings, as a deity with two faces, as he looked to both the future and the past. Little did they know how accurately this imagery would come to depict the modern political class.

For many years, these politicians have voiced concerns over China's use of facial recognition technology, underscoring the invasive surveillance state and the resulting human rights abuses, especially against the Uighur minority. Yet, a strange phenomenon occurred once the global gaze shifted from the East to the West. These previously outspoken critics have metamorphosed into proponents, endorsing the very technology they once reviled and promoting it as a harbinger of public safety and efficiency.

A Masquerade Ball

As we delve deeper into this grand performance, we find ourselves in the throes of a masquerade ball. Here, deception is the order of the day, and the political leaders take center stage. It's a dance of power, with each move meticulously choreographed to the tune of societal manipulation.

The politicians' 'right time' isn't determined by the maturity of the technology or society's readiness. Instead, it's a calculated decision that aligns with their political agenda. Public dialogue and discourse take a back seat until the timing is just right, often coinciding with crucial political events such as elections or referendums. The agenda isn't about public safety or the collective good; it's about maintaining power, controlling the narrative, and swaying public opinion.

Behind the Velvet Curtain

In any performance, the magic happens behind the scenes. The same is true in the theatre of politics. Facial recognition technology isn't a sudden revelation or a miraculous overnight invention. Behind the velvet curtain of public discourse, these technologies and strategies have been active for years, hidden from public view and shielded from potential scrutiny.

These guarded secrets are revealed only when the political puppet masters deem it perfect, often with a veil of 'urgent necessity' or 'inevitable progress.' But what is truly being unveiled? Is it a groundbreaking technology that promises a safer society, or is it a new means of surveillance and control?

Shadows of the Past

The tale takes a haunting turn as it echoes the swift ideological shift of the Estonian Communists after 1991. History teaches us many things, but in this context, it sheds light on the chameleon-like nature of those in power. Just as the Communists quickly shed their red robes to don the sinimustvalge, Europe's political class adroitly adapts to the changing technological landscape. But is it adaptation, or is it manipulation?

Unmasking the Charade

As the finale approaches, the mask begins to slip, revealing the stark reality of political hypocrisy. The European leadership, which once took a stand against China's surveillance policies, now subtly adopts similar strategies. But more than the deceit itself, what shocks is their audacity – the belief that the public wouldn't notice the façade or the hypocrisy.

The Dance Continues

As the curtain falls on this act of the grand political theatre, it leaves the audience – the public – in contemplation. It's essential to understand that the villain of this piece isn't the technology itself. On the contrary, facial recognition, like any technology, is a tool. The peril lies in the hands that wield it, the intentions behind its use, and the opacity of the process.

This narrative is a wakeup call, an invitation to remain vigilant and critical of the puppet masters who hold the strings to power. As the dance continues, it's up to us, the audience, to question, to engage, and to ensure that technology's integration into our society is more than just a well-rehearsed act in the grand theatre of politics.