International Co-operation

The Bailiwick is part of a global data economy and many data protection issues now transcend national borders. We engage with data protection regulators across the world to keep up to date with developments and cooperate on regulatory matters.

The Law (section 65) requires us to take appropriate steps to:

  • Develop international cooperation mechanisms to facilitate the effective enforcement of legislation for the protection of personal data
  • Provide international mutual assistance in the enforcement of legislation for the protection of personal data
  • Engage relevant stakeholders in discussion and activities aimed at furthering international cooperation in the enforcement of legislation for the protection of personal data
  • Promote the exchange and documentation of personal data legislation and practice.

The ODPA is a member of the following global groups and networks which serve to support engagement and cooperation:

  • The Global Privacy Assembly (GPA)
    The GPA first met in 1979 as the International Conference of Data Protection and Privacy Commissioners, and since then has been the key global forum for data protection and privacy authorities. The Assembly seeks to provide leadership and international level in data protection and privacy. It does this by connecting the efforts of more than 130 data protection and privacy authorities from across the globe.
  • BIIDPA
    The ‘British, Irish and Islands’ Data Protection Authorities’ of the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, Guernsey, Jersey, Isle of Man, Malta, Gibraltar and Bermuda. This is an informal gathering which allows discussion and learning between the regulatory offices.
  • The Common Thread Network (CTN)
    The CTN is a forum for data protection and privacy authorities with a Commonwealth perspective. It was established to promote cross-border cooperation and build capacity by sharing knowledge and emerging trends, regulatory changes and best practices.
  • The Global Privacy Enforcement Network (GPEN)
    GPEN is an informal network of data and privacy enforcement authorities which enables sharing of best practice, cooperation and support.