Image: Ruth Suehle. CC-BY-SA

Privacy has many definitions, one of the most popular being the right to be left alone. The right to privacy is enshrined in many constitutions and international treaties, signifying its importance around the globe. Privacy is a broad and highly debated topic, with implications for personal development, free speech and innovation – privacy (and related topics such as Data Protection) will need special attention as we move further into the digital age.

The increase of online surveillance, economic interest in personal data, and self-tracking through wearables will only add to the growing complexity of the challenges surrounding privacy. Policy issues will need an interdisciplinary approach to deal with the multifaceted nature of privacy.

Terms of Reference

This Working Group is responsible for monitoring digital privacy issues and reporting back to the Policy Team on issues and developments relevant to EFA’s objectives, and to facilitate the production of submissions and policy position papers as and where appropriate.

These issues will include those relating to:

  • New legislation relating to privacy issues
  • Data breaches, and compliance with mandatory data breach notification laws
  • Encryption technologies and attempts to regulate use thereof
  • Identity verification and management services
  • Impact of the implementation of the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

Given the pervasive nature of privacy issues, there will be significant overlap with the work of other Working Groups. This Working Group will also be responsible for liaison with key external organisations, including:

Working Group Members

  • Michael Collyer (Lead)
  • Dragan Dobric
  • Angus Murray
  • Tim Wilson-Brown
  • Nick Kavadias
  • Lachlan Kang