Privacy Commissioner launches strategic plan to kick off Data Privacy Week

Privacy Commissioner of Canada Philippe Dufresne marked the beginning of Data Privacy Week with the launch of a strategic plan aimed at shaping the direction of the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada (OPC) for the next three years.

The Data Privacy Week is marked globally each year during the last week of January to highlight technology's impact on privacy rights and underline the importance of valuing and protecting personal information. Commissioner Dufresne kicked off Data Privacy Week with the launch of a strategic plan identifying three crucial priorities that will guide the OPC: maximize the impact of the work that it does to promote and protect the fundamental right to privacy; address and advocate for privacy in this time of technological change; and champion the privacy rights of children.

The OPC aims to enhance the impact of its efforts in promoting and safeguarding the fundamental right to privacy. The plan involves leveraging data and partnerships to provide focused guidance and outreach. The OPC said the approach will address compliance issues across public and private sectors.

Recognizing the swift pace of technological advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI) and generative AI, the OPC will focus on mitigating the privacy implications. By fostering a privacy-centric culture, promoting privacy-by-design principles, and setting privacy standards, the OPC aims to encourage innovation while upholding the right to privacy.

The strategic plan also underscores the OPC's commitment to advocating for laws explicitly acknowledging children's rights in the digital realm. The objective is to ensure children can navigate online spaces securely, free from deceptive practices. Specific initiatives will address the unique privacy needs of children and young people.

"The privacy issues and risks that we collectively face as a society, in both the public and private sectors, are vast and, at times, can seem challenging. However, we face the situation with optimism," Commissioner Dufresne said. "These strategic priorities are where I believe that my Office can have the greatest impact for Canadians and where the greatest risks lie if they are not addressed."

The OPC said it seeks stakeholder feedback to help inform the plan's implementation over the next few years. The OPC will accept comments via email or a feedback form on the OPC website until March 31, 2024.