The Egyptian government has taken a significant step towards safeguarding citizens' personal data with the establishment of the Center for Personal Data Protection, as per Law 151/2020. This law aims to protect personal data from exploitation and trading, ensuring the security and privacy of citizens' information. The center will operate under the supervision of the relevant minister and will be headquartered in Cairo or a neighboring governorate.
The Center for Personal Data Protection is tasked with developing and implementing policies, plans, and programs to protect personal data. Its responsibilities include unifying policies and plans for data protection across the country, setting standards and procedures for data handling, and issuing licenses and permits for data processing. The center will also provide guidance on data protection and approve codes of conduct for various entities.
One of the key roles of the center is to coordinate with government and non-government agencies to ensure data protection procedures are in place. It will also support the development of human resources in data protection and provide training and awareness programs for individuals and entities. Additionally, the center will receive complaints and reports related to data protection and take necessary decisions.
The center will have the authority to monitor and inspect entities handling personal data and take legal action when necessary. It will also verify the conditions for cross-border data transfer and make decisions on data movement. Furthermore, the center will organize conferences, workshops, and training sessions to raise awareness about data protection.
The Center for Personal Data Protection will provide expertise and consultations to investigative and judicial bodies. It will also conclude agreements and memoranda of understanding with international entities to exchange experiences and best practices in data protection. The center will publish periodic reports on data protection procedures and updates.
As part of its responsibilities, the center will prepare and issue an annual report on the state of personal data protection in Egypt. This report will provide insights into the center's activities, challenges, and recommendations for improving data protection in the country.
The establishment of the Center for Personal Data Protection marks a significant milestone in Egypt's efforts to safeguard citizens' personal data. With its comprehensive mandate, the center is expected to play a crucial role in ensuring the security and privacy of personal data in Egypt.
Key points
- The center will be responsible for developing and implementing policies, plans, and programs to protect personal data.
- The center will have the authority to monitor and inspect entities handling personal data and take legal action when necessary.
- The center will provide expertise and consultations to investigative and judicial bodies.
