The Croatian Personal Data Protection Agency will commemorate European Data Protection Day on January 28th 2025, marking its 19th consecutive celebration.
This important event aims to enhance public awareness of the fundamental human rights to personal data protection and privacy. Established in 2006 by the Council of Europe with the support of the European Commission, January 28 is recognized as European Data Protection Day, also known globally as Privacy Day.
The Council of Europe has been a pioneer in the field of personal data protection with the establishment of Convention for the Protection of Individuals with regard to Automatic Processing of Personal Data—Convention 108. Since 1981, Convention 108 has been the first and only legally binding international instrument dedicated to data protection and privacy rights. Its modernized version, Convention 108+, continues this legacy by preserving human dignity while providing a secure framework that facilitates the free flow of data. Convention 108+ ensures that data protection remains a cornerstone of human rights in the rapidly evolving landscape of emerging technologies and global data exchange.
This year, the Council of Europe has reaffirmed its leadership in advancing human rights and governance by adopting and opening for signature the Council of Europe Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence, Human Rights, Democracy, and the Rule of Law. This groundbreaking, legally binding international instrument is the first of its kind, aimed at ensuring that artificial intelligence systems adhere to common standards of human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.
On this very important occasion Croatian DPA organizes conference “The Future of AI: What Lies Ahead?” with aim to highlight the significance of personal data protection, share best practices, and foster collaboration among experts across various sectors. This year, we will focus on the risks and benefits associated with the development and use of artificial intelligence, bringing together representatives from various industries, academia, public authorities, and data protection specialists.
As artificial intelligence increasingly permeates our daily lives, it presents significant challenges related to data protection. The right to personal data protection and privacy is intricately linked to other fundamental rights, including the right to integrity and human dignity, equality, freedom of expression, freedom of movement and security, education, and a fair trial. Violations of personal data rights can lead to broader human rights infringements, with potentially severe consequences for individuals.
Non-compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation in AI systems can result in discrimination, biased decision-making, and identity theft, among other issues. Therefore, it is vital to ensure transparency and accountability in data usage to safeguard individuals and uphold fundamental human rights in the digital age.
AI developers and AI deployers must assess the potential adverse impacts of AI applications on human rights and fundamental freedoms. Based on this assessment, they should undertake appropriate mitigating measures. Furthermore, they should adopt forms of algorithm vigilance that promote the accountability of all relevant stakeholders throughout the entire life cycle of AI applications. It is crucial to highlight that human involvement in data processing carried out by AI systems and emerging digital technologies remains central to safeguarding human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.
Following the opening remarks, a panel discussion will feature experts from academia, the IT industry, and other relevant fields, addressing the advantages and challenges of AI development and usage. This multidisciplinary dialogue will foster the exchange of experiences, knowledge, and insights on how AI can improve various societal facets while carefully weighing its associated risks. Key topics will include ethics, data security, innovation, and the impact of AI on employment, promoting constructive debate and collaborative problem-solving.
This year’s European Data Protection Day celebration will also introduce “Olivia,” a virtual teacher and assistant designed to facilitate GDPR compliance. This innovative tool will enable entrepreneurs to understand their basic obligations, test their knowledge, and create essential documents to demonstrate compliance with personal data protection regulations.
