Exclusive: WFP to extend Palantir contract despite concerns raised in leaked audit
Summary
The UN’s World Food Programme (WFP) plans to renew its contract with the US software company Palantir despite concerns about privacy and data protection revealed in a leaked internal audit. The audit highlighted poor risk management and a lack of clear data privacy rules, while some WFP staff worry about using Palantir's technology given its controversial military and immigration enforcement roles.Key Facts
- The WFP manages a large biometric database called SCOPE, containing data on millions of aid recipients.
- Palantir created a system called DOTS to help the WFP track humanitarian aid and manage supply chain data.
- A leaked 2025 WFP audit found “inadequate risk management” and missing policies on data privacy related to Palantir.
- Some staff fear that beneficiary data might be used to train Palantir’s software.
- Palantir’s technology has been used by US authorities in immigration enforcement and military actions.
- A 2026 cyberattack exposed sensitive data of aid recipients in Gaza, but WFP says this was separate from Palantir’s systems.
- Despite concerns, the WFP is finalizing a five-year extension with Palantir.
- Independent researchers warn this partnership may violate UN ethical principles and present a conflict of interest.
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