HRC49 - Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the right to privacy - EU Statement

Thank you Madame Vice-President,

The European Union welcomes Special Rapporteur Dr. Ana Brian Nougrères at the occasion of her first presentation in this council. On this occasion, we first and foremost want to assure you of our support of your mandate.

We agree on the fact that the right to privacy in the digital age is a fundamental right that allows for the enjoyment of many other rights, such as freedom of opinion and expression and that the enjoyment of privacy is instrumental for the work of human rights defenders. Finally, the right to privacy lies at the heart of the debate that clearly shows that human rights must apply online and offline.

Madame Special Rapporteur,

in your report you allude to the harmonization and cooperation of personal data protection systems – what are according to you the key elements for different data protection system to be compatible and efficient ?

What are your priorities during your mandate?

Thank you, Madame Vice-President.