What is the African network of data protection authorities? African Network of Data Protection Authorities is a network of data protection authorities in Africa. In this article, we will know more information about data protection authorities.
Accessing the African Network Of Data Protection Authorities
Its purpose is to facilitate the exchange of information and coordination between data protection authorities in Africa. It is to provide a platform for African data protection authorities to express their views and make joint proposals to the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
Article 29 Data Protection Working Party is an advisory working party of the European Commission consisting of representatives. Also, it is from the data protection authorities of each EU member state.
The Working Party has no formal power over the Commission. But can issue opinions on provisions in new legislation that could fall under the Data Protection Directive.
Its opinions are into consideration by the Commission when drafting legislation but are not binding. The Working Party meets three or four times a year and is by a secretariat located within the European Commission.
What is Data Protection Authorities?
Data protection authorities are government bodies responsible for privacy matters. In most countries, it is the single contact point for any issues related to personal data.
For example, in the United Kingdom, there is the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), in Ireland, it is the Data Protection Commissioner (DPC), and in South Africa, it is the Office of the Chief Executive Officer (OCEO).
Examples
In Belgium, it is the Federal Privacy Commission. Also, in France, it is the National Commission for Computing and Civil Liberties.
In addition, In Germany, it is the Federal Commissioner for Data Protection and Freedom of Information. In addition, In Ireland, it is the Irish Data Protection Commissioner.
Data protection authorities are to ensure that data subjects’ rights are respected and protected when they are using digital services. As well as when they are in any other activity that involves processing personal data.
Data flow between continental Africa and Europe:
In terms of mobility and the right to the free movement of persons, Africans have received the right to freely enter European countries without a visa since 15 July 2017.
As a result, there is a greater demand for data protection laws in Africa and the European Union. In this regard, the African Network of Data Protection Authorities will be to coordinate this matter.
Risks
In the case of non-European organizations that are active in the EU, the GDPR applies only if the organizations are in Europe.
For example, a US company with an office in Germany will be subject to the GDPR.
However, a US company without any operations in Europe will not be subject to the GDPR. Also, an African organization doesn’t need to comply with new data protection regulations if it does not have any operations in Europe.
In this case, If an African organization does not have any branches or offices in Europe, the GDPR will not apply to it. There is no need to comply with European regulations that do not apply directly.
Conclusion
In this article, we have known about the African network of data protection authorities. Also, we have known about the important role of data protection authorities in the digital economy.