2025-05-09

Georgia Hosted the European Conference of Data Protection Authorities

During May 6 and May 9, 2025, the Personal Data Protection Service of Georgia hosted the 33rd European Conference of Data Protection Authorities , also known as the Spring Conference. This high level event in the field of personal data protection was held in Batumi, Georgia.

The conference was attended by approximately 80 delegates including the leaders and representatives of various European Data Protection Authorities. In addition, representatives of various European institutions, including EUROPOL, EUROJUST, EUROSTAT and EDPS have participated in the event.

The Conference was opened by the welcome speech of the President of the Personal Data Protection Service. The President Dr.Dr. Lela Janashvili discussed the importance of the conference, the trending topics, current tendencies and innovative approaches, and the reform in Georgia in the field of personal data protection.

This years’ conference tagline was: “ A person’s most valuable treasure is their identity." These words belong to Ilia Chavchavadze, a Georgian publisher, writer, and poet who revitalized the sense of national identity in Georgia during the second half of the 19th century. First spoken in 1899, this phrase remains deeply rooted in Georgian society today and reflects our values regarding individual identity and the importance of personal privacy.

The Personal Data Protection Service is committed to upholding common European values. On the path toward alignment with the European Union, we continue  advancement of the institutional development, implementation of European standards, and strengthening of international cooperation.

It is within this context that the Service carried out a legislative reform in personal data protection law, which substantially aligns Georgia with European data protection standards. This reform not only strengthens data subjects' rights but also positions Georgia as a trusted partner on the global level.

"I would especially like to highlight our Service’s observer status at the European Data Protection Board. Participation in this important platform enables us to synchronize our work with European values," noted Dr. Dr. Lela Janashvili.

The conference participants were also welcomed by the Public Defender of Georgia, Levan Ioseliani, who also delivered a welcome speech.

The hosts and guests of the event discussed a range of important topics, including the regulation of artificial intelligence and data protection legal frameworks at national, European, and global levels; the protection of children’s privacy and personal data; the impact of modern technological developments and artificial intelligence on the right to privacy; current challenges in protecting personal data related to an individual’s health; and the role of Data Protection Officers (DPOs) and privacy professionals.

As part of the 33rd Spring Conference, the matter of accreditation for the two fellow data protection supervisory authorities was put to a vote.

At the end of each conference day, two parallel side events were held: "Data Protection in Georgia — Challenges and Opportunities" and "Fundamental Rights Impact Assessment in Artificial Intelligence: From Legal Requirements to Implementation. The Catalan FRIA Model."

The Spring Conference has been held since 1991 and plays a key role in facilitating discussions on emerging trends in privacy and data protection. The event promotes a constructive dialogue between European data protection authorities and practitioners in the field, creating a strong platform for addressing both challenges and opportunities in data protecion space. The conference is known as a major event for reviewing European standards in personal data protection and for sharing best practices across Europe.

In addition to the official conference sessions, the Personal Data Protection Service organized supplementary events and social activities for the guests, offering participants an opportunity to experience Georgia’s unique culture, history, and natural beauty.