IntroductionAs countries around the world embark on the digital transformation of all of their public services, EdTech has the potential to contribute to accessibility of education resources and enhanced learning outcomes, as well as to ease the administrative burden on teachers, improve classroom management and others....

IntroductionEnsuring age appropriate experiences is an important element to help protect the privacy and safety of users. However, effective age assurance presents a variety of challenges. This session combines a Google presentation and an interactive, mock session on how research shapes the implementation of age assurance with an expert panel to explore and discuss the latest technologies...

During this workshop our presenters will each highlight some of the policy recommendations co-created by a group of experts with UNICEF about data governance for EdTech used in schools as part of the UNICEF data governance for children project. We will then divide the participants into groups to provide feedback on the recommendations for the different stakeholders ...

Growing up in the digital age means that children are exposed to data collection before they even learn to read. This insightful session explores ways in which a safer online space can be created for the next generations, and how to enforce meaningful protection, while balancing innovation with responsibility and empowering young users to navigate the internet safely.  Key questions

The concept of personal data is pivotal to understand the scope of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Since data protection regulations and directives were adopted, national courts and the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) had to determine whether some data like IP addresses are personal. Courts' rulings are often based on the possibility to re-identify individuals from the datasets under dispute. The differe...

Most of the global initiatives in the field of artificial intelligence are designed as globally-minded soft regulation. “Soft” law or the Brussels Effect can complement but will not be able to replace “hard” law. In the case of AI, a technology that has the potential to revolutionise our society, what will make the difference is the enforceability of the law. In the EU’s AI Act, the EU co-legislators make a wise choice to depart fro...

The foundation of GDPR compliance lies in clearly defined legal bases for the processing of personal data. While the appropriate application of Article 6 and 9 of the GDPR to standard processing activities is sometimes already difficult, these challenges vastly increase when applied to AI training. The complex data processing activities involved therein, as well as the concrete personal data that is collected and used, turn GDPR-com...

Introduction The revised Convention 108 of the Council of Europe is being ratified by a growing number of countries. It will soon reach the required threshold to trigger the entry into force of the convention, as well as bring a paradigm shift in the landscape of global data governance. This session will discuss the key implications of this treaty, in addition to its role in shaping t...

This study examines the varying interpretations of data portability across different legislative frameworks. While each jurisdiction labels the concept as “portability", the underlying understanding of what constitutes portability significantly differs. This divergence in conceptualization, rather than mere definitional variation, not only leads to substantial confusion, but also affects the enjoyment of rights and obligations of re...

Introduction Experts on this panel will investigate the latest developments in Privacy Enhancing Technologies by examining their effectiveness in protecting user data and fostering trust in online environments. The panel will also address the emerging trends and evaluate their potential impact on privacy landscapes, which is helpful in navigating the ever-evolving terrain of privacy r...

Introduction Democratic societies must address dual obligations: to protect their population and to preserve the fundamental rights of their citizens. They seek to balance national security interests wit...

Introduction This session will wrap up the track on privacy and democracy, by reflecting on the key insights, trends, and challenges discussed over the course of the sessions on privacy and democracy.  Key questions and objectives What is the main takeaway on privacy and de...

Introduction This Welcome Reception invites you to discover the Privacy MelodIA: An original musical composition on data protection, performed in an outstanding setting and surrounded by the largest collection of Tintoretto’s paintings. 

Introduction In this intriguing session, the realm of neuro privacy and neuro psychological rights will be the main focus. As advancements in neuroscience unlock new insights into the human brain, questions arise about the ethical considerations of accessing and utilizing neural data. The speakers will explore the relationship between neuroscience, privacy, and fundamental human right...

Introduction Biometric data is increasingly used for medical diagnosis, public safety, and home access controls. In the ever-evolving world of data protection and privacy, biometric data compliance and ethics stand at the forefront of the discussion. From fingerprint scans to facial recognition, it represents a unique set of opportunities and risks. This session explores the ethi...

Discussions surrounding the interplay of AI and Data Protection Laws will reveal how academics and practitioners from around the world manage the intersectionality of these laws. How do data protection laws and emerging AI intersect, and how do they complement each other? If you’re a privacy professional, legal expert, AI developer, or policymaker, this is your must-attend session, as it will feature professionals from Google, EDRI, DG Justice, a...

Generative AI development and deployment is exploding, but the recent EDPB Opinion 28/2024 and early enforcement actions (notably the fine against OpenAI by the Garante in Italy) signal that compliance with the GDPR must be taken seriously from the outset. Against this backdrop, our panel will explore how to build trust and avoid pitfalls when developing and deploying LLMs in Europe. We’ll examine the evolving legal landscape—and whether it leaves enough room for meaningful innovation....

As AI usage seems to proliferate, international regulations may be the way to go to develop cross-border compliance and cooperation. Featuring representatives from both sides of the Atlantic, as well as renowned global think tanks, this session will discuss how organizations can effectively align themselves with international regulations to achieve convergence and interoperability.  ...

This session brings together industry leaders and regulators to explore the essential aspects of designing compliant AI training models. In the discussion, panelists will provide a comprehensive overview of the intersection between regulatory requirements and innovative AI practices, offering practical advice and actionable insights for professionals in the field. Key topics include:  

AI systems are becoming more integrated into critical decision-making processes, which makes questions of liability and accountability more pressing than ever. If an AI-based decision goes wrong, who is responsible? This session will unite experts from Meta, Italian Institute for Privacy and Data Valorisation, AI Law Tech Institute, SGS, and CNPD to explore the evolving frameworks for AI liability and the role of certification in building respons...

We will inaugurate the fourth edition of the Privacy Symposium at the Official Welcome Reception. This event marks the beginning of a week rich in insightful discussions and open exchange, set in the inspiring atmosphere of Venice. Guests will have the opportunity to admire the remarkable works of Tintoretto, one of the city’s most celebrated painters, while connecting with professionals from diverse backgrounds and engaging in fruitful discussions. The evening will be enriched by...

The European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) plays a critical role in shaping the EU’s privacy agenda, as there is a growing need to balance technological advancements, international cooperation, and the complexity of data governance. Attendees of this session will develop a deeper understanding of the EDPS Roadmap, a strategic vision shaping Europe’s data protection landscape. From regulatory chall...

The last few years have seen a significant increase in digital solutions that support privacy friendly electronic identification and authentication: mobile identity wallets, zero knowledge proofs, verifiable credentials, age assurance applications, and so forth. Legislators are also increasing their support for these solutions. But are they actually trustworthy from a privacy perspective? This session will explore the potential, and the pitf...

After a productive day of engaging sessions, what better way to refresh than by enjoying a traditional Aperol Spritz at the Privacy Professionals’ Meet-up? Join us for a relaxed evening of conversation and connection over this iconic Italian cocktail. It’s a unique opportunity to get to know other participants of the Privacy Symposium, while enjoying a taste of the dolce vita in true Venetian style.

As cases regarding restrictions on freedom of expression seem to intensify, the question of democracy and exposure to opposing opinions rises to the forefront. Attendees at this session will hear perspectives from representatives of fundamental rights agencies and Council of Europe as well as officials from the US Department of Justice and UN Human Rights Council. The panel will provide a full picture of how we can address restrictions on freedom...

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) stands as a foundational document that seeks to protect both our dignity and freedoms. But how does Article 30, which sets boundaries on rights, interact with the rights we hold dear in the digital age? In this session, the panel will present the complex relationship between freedom of expression, data protection, and the human rights framework, with a focus on Article 30 of the UDHR and the Eleano...

Children have increasing access to the internet, which also exposes them to significant risks. The Regulation on Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) represents a crucial step in addressing these dangers, aiming to protect children from online exploitation while respecting their privacy rights. This session will explore the current and upcoming regulations, examining their implications for fundamental rights and the ...

Deep dive into the practical sides of data protection certification, exploring how it can be a true motivation for operational efficiency. From the challenges that organizations face when pursuing certification to the real-world impact on data security, professionals of the industry will discuss how certification can move beyond compliance and become a strategic asset. Whether you’re looking to get certified or you’re curious about what goes behi...

Data protection certifications are now a powerful tool that can define your brand’s commitment to privacy. But as privacy laws evolve at lightning speed, certifications are evolving too. In this session, we will explore the latest developments in international data protection certifications and uncover what’s next for organizations looking to prove their credentials. 

Distinguished speakers will come together in this session to explore how data protection standards can be harmonized across regions, as the need for convergence and interoperability is more urgent than ever. They will dive into the obstacles and opportunities of creating a truly interconnected certification landscape. ...