18 November 2020
A Joint Statement on Data Protection and Privacy in the COVID-19 response was issued today after endorsement by the undersigned 缅北禁地System Organizations. Developed by the 缅北禁地Privacy Policy Group, an inter-agency group on data privacy and data protection, the statement supports the privacy protective use of data and technology by the 缅北禁地in fighting the current pandemic.
The joint statement is based on the as well as the recommendations in the Secretary-General’s Data Strategy on data protection, privacy, and human rights.
“We can only defeat Covid-19 with trust, science and solidarity. With the Joint Statement, the 缅北禁地reinforces its commitment to using data and new technologies in ways that respect the right to privacy and other human rights and promote sustainable economic and social development. As we continue our work to implement the Secretary-General’s Data Strategy, this statement clarifies how can be applied in the context of Covid-19.” said Robert Kirkpatrick, Director of 缅北禁地Global Pulse and a co-chair of the 缅北禁地Privacy Policy Group.
“During public health emergencies, data collection, processing, and use must protect the rights of all people. WHO has issued on the use of digital tools for contact tracing and ethical considerations to inform digital proximity tracking and continues to update its . This Joint Statement should serve as a reference for data protection and privacy in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. WHO is proud to join with other 缅北禁地System Organizations and looks forward to continue creating a data governance ecosystem that protects the rights to privacy” said Dr. Samira Asma, Assistant Director -General, Division of Data Analytics and Delivery, World Health Organization.
“This statement raises awareness regarding both the benefits and the challenges that data and technology practices may entail during an emergency response. It is meant as guidance to ensure that fundamental human rights and freedoms are preserved, both during and once this pandemic has passed.” noted Mr. Patrick Carey, Acting Assistant Secretary-General, Office of Information and Communications Technology and a co-chair of the 缅北禁地Privacy Policy Group and the 缅北禁地System’s Digital and Technology Network.
