On 23 - 24 September 2024, the EDPS had the privilege of co-organising the 2024 edition of the International Organisations Workshop on data protection (IOW), in partnership with the World Bank, in Washington, D.C. It was the first time that the workshop was held outside of Europe, reinforcing our commitment to enhancing the global dimension of this initiative and promoting the application of data protection principles worldwide.
Since its creation in 2005, this initiative has served as a platform for discussing pressing issues and promoting high standards in data protection, bringing together International Organisations to share knowledge and best practices for safeguarding personal data. The EDPS co-organises this workshop each year in a different location and in collaboration with a different International Organisation. This year, I am particularly grateful to the World Bank for co-hosting the workshop and helping us organise it across the Atlantic, making this initiative more accessible to representatives based in the Americas and outside of Europe. In fact, 170 representatives of 68 International Organisations participated to this year’s IOW, including 13 new organisations.
The 2024 edition of the IOW reminded us of a crucial point: data protection knows no borders. Regardless of their diverse missions, all International Organisations should strive to place data protection at the core of their operations. After all, safeguarding personal data is not just about protecting individual privacy; it is also about upholding the integrity and trustworthiness of the organisations themselves. Besides, dynamic exchanges of knowledge and expertise are the driving force behind global progress in data protection. By connecting diverse organisations and encouraging collaboration, we spark fresh ideas and build stronger strategies that contribute to creating a safer, more privacy-conscious world.
The year 2024 was marked by a significant milestone for the EDPS — our institution’s 20th anniversary. To commemorate this occasion in the context of the IOW, a high-level panel took a deep dive into the workshop’s journey over the past two decades, reflecting on its achievements and challenges while exploring future perspectives for this initiative.
In 2024, no discussion on digital regulation would be complete without addressing artificial intelligence (AI). A dedicated panel on AI provided a platform for the participants to explore both the potential of AI and the data protection challenges it brings. The conversation highlighted the importance of sharing best practices to navigate risks associated with the use of AI, ensuring that innovation goes hand-in-hand with safeguarding individuals’ privacy.
In addition to these panels, the workshop featured two practical sessions. The first focused on strategies for preventing, mitigating, and responding to personal data breaches, providing participants with actionable insights to enhance their defenses. The second session focused on how to ensure that IT tools, whether developed in-house or procured, comply with the highest privacy standards. Finally, the workshop included two breakout sessions to encourage dynamic discussions in smaller groups. One session tackled the complexities of data transfers to and from International Organisations, while the other explored the challenges for data protection officers and other privacy professionals within these Organisations. The format of these sessions resulted in a deeper engagement, enabling participants to exchange knowledge and experience in a more personal setting.
Looking back, I want to express how proud I am of the IOW and the profound impact it continues to make each year. The dedication and active participation of all involved truly stands out and ensures that data protection remains where it should be: at the forefront of our focus.
After celebrating the 20th anniversary of the EDPS, we now look forward to the 20th anniversary of the IOW initiative in 2025, with the hope that it will continue to inspire innovation, foster collaboration, and drive forward the global commitment to protecting personal data for years to come.