GDPR News » Brussels Privacy Symptomium

EDPO had the pleasure of attending the Brussels Privacy Symposium 2025, organized by the Future of Privacy Forum and Brussels Privacy Hub, a day filled with insightful discussions on the evolving relationship between data protection and AI 🤖📜

Here are some of our main takeaways:

– The AI Act and GDPR are complementary, not contradictory. The AI Office and EDPB are working together on joint guidelines to ensure consistent application and legal clarity across the EU ⚖️

– There’s a strong call for harmonisation and cooperation among Data Protection Authorities (DPAs) to address fragmented enforcement and promote consistency across member states 🤝

– Speakers emphasised that simplification of data protection rules must not weaken fundamental rights, the focus should remain on improving implementation and supporting citizens, regulators, and companies alike 💡

– AI governance requires meaningful human oversight, strong risk management throughout the AI lifecycle, and clear rules on explainability. Concepts like fairness, transparency, and accountability remain at the heart of responsible innovation 🌍

– Legitimate interest can serve as a valid legal basis for AI development, as highlighted by a panellist from the CNIL, but only with proper safeguards to ensure individuals’ rights are respected 🔐

The key message of the day: the future of privacy depends on collaboration, clarity, and trust. As technology evolves at lightning speed, the privacy landscape must adapt just as quickly, and only through genuine collaboration can we meet the challenges and opportunities this new era brings.

EDPO was glad to take part in this important conversation and looks forward to the next edition of the Brussels Privacy Symposium! 🎯