UNITED NATIONS HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL

60^th Session

Interactive Dialogue on the report of OHCHR on the right to privacy in the digital age

18 September 2025

EU Statement

Mr President, 

The European Union thanks the Office of the High Commissioner for its report on challenges and risks with regard to discrimination and unequal enjoyment of the right to privacy associated with the collection and processing of data. 

Notwithstanding undeniable benefits and immense promises new technologies and technological innovation bring to humanity, they must be anchored in international human rights law and standards, including the right to privacy. In that respect, the Global Digital Compact makes clear that the collection, sharing and processing of data, including in artificial intelligence systems, may amplify risks in the absence of effective personal data protection and privacy norm. 

The European Union indeed considers that digital transformation, data collection and data processing may expose individuals, including those in a vulnerable situation, to arbitrary surveillance, censorship, and discrimination. 

Data protection is a fundamental right in the EU, enshrined in the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights. In that respect, we have developed robust and comprehensive legislation over the years to uphold the right to privacy, such as the General Data Protection Regulation. In addition, the Digital Services Act aims at bolstering user privacy by enhancing transparency, accountability, and user control over personal data. Likewise, the risk-based approach of the EU AI Act contributes to protecting privacy, particularly with regard to how AI systems process and utilise personal data. Finally, the Data Governance Act and the Data Act empower individuals and organizations with greater control over their data.

As a result, the EU believes that human rights safeguards and strong data protection frameworks are needed to prevent the misuse of personal data. In that sense, we advocate for global standards that prioritise users’ right to privacy, yet facilitate data flows that support innovation, trust and sustainable development. This can only be achieved through a multi-stakeholder approach. 

What are the main hurdles to the development of human rights guardrails for the development of data-driven technologies? 

Thank you.