Interactive Dialogue with Special Rapporteur on the Right to Privacy: CNDH Insists on the Need to Adopt a National Digital Strategy Based on Respect for Fundamental Human Rights
The National Human Rights Council (CNDH) took part in the interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur (SP) on the right to privacy on Wednesday 13 March 2024, at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, organized as part of the 55th Session of the Human Rights Council (HRC) from 26 February to 5 April 2024.
In its statement delivered by Mrs. Malika Benradi, CNDH member, the CNDH strongly urged the SP to take into consideration in her next reports the role of National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) in ensuring protection in the digital age, as non-judicial remedies mechanisms.
The CNDH noted its initiative to institutionalize this question by establishing a dedicated division for Artificial Intelligence (AI). It emphasized that its actions relating to this issue are documented in its Annual Reports, which underline the potential risks of misuse of personal data affecting both public institutions and private companies.
Hence, the CNDH, assisted by its 12 Regional Commissions, has documented several violations of the right to privacy, particularly unauthorized photos or inappropriate statements, which may affect the private lives of women and girls.
In the same context, the CNDH reiterated its recommendations related to this issue, placing particular focus on the need to adopt a national digital strategy based on respect for fundamental human rights. It also emphasized the importance of enhancing protection against the unauthorized exploitation of personal data by companies on the internet and underscored the imperative to hold them accountable in case of violations.