Introduction 

This session will discuss the interplay between data protection and economic development. It will try to move beyond position statements, to explore the facts and evidence of such interplay and potential trade-off. Is privacy limiting or accelerating economic development? What are the risks and economic impact on countries that do not provide high-level standards for data protection?  

Key questions and objectives 

• How do data protection regulations impact economic development?  
• Are data protection regulations limiting or accelerating economic development?  
• What will be the economic impact and risks on countries that do not provide high-level standards for data protection?  
• What is the relationship between protecting privacy rights and fostering a suitable environment for innovation, economic development, and investments?