Data Protection Day 2026: Reset or Refine?

Data Protection Day 2026: Reset or Refine? is a one-day conference co-organized by the European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) and the Council of Europe (CoE) to commemorate the signing of Convention 108, the first legally binding treaty protecting privacy in the digital age. The event aims to explore new frontiers in data protection, focusing on the challenges and opportunities that arise when innovation and emerging technologies intersect with privacy risks and the regulatory framework.

Key topics include the modernization of data protection frameworks, particularly in light of Convention 108+ and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Discussions will center on how Europe can maintain its leadership in data protection amidst rapid technological advancements, ensuring agility, coherence, and trust. The conference will also address the balance between regulatory simplification and strong safeguards for individuals, as well as Europe's role in inspiring a human-centric digital future.

The event will feature opening remarks by EDPS Supervisor Wojciech Wiewiórowski and closing remarks by Acting EDPS Secretary-General Thomas Zerdick. Attendees can expect a series of sessions with policymakers, regulators, academics, and practitioners, providing opportunities for networking and in-depth discussions on the future of data protection legislation.

This conference is ideal for professionals involved in data protection, privacy law, regulatory affairs, and technology policy. It offers a platform to engage with experts, gain insights into the evolving data protection landscape, and contribute to shaping the future of privacy in the digital age.