From May 6 to 9, the annual “Spring Conference” took place in the coastal city of Batumi, Georgia. This year, the event brought together around 80 delegates from various national data protection authorities, including the Data State Inspectorate (hereinafter – DVI). This was already the 33rd consecutive conference, continuing the established tradition – the previous meeting took place in 2024 in Riga, where the conference was hosted by DVI.
Throughout the entire event, the motto of this year’s conference – “A person's most valuable treasure is their identity” – was displayed on the screen. These words, originally expressed by renowned Georgian writer and public figure Ilia Chavchavadze, served as the guiding theme for all discussions – ranging from the importance of human rights and data protection in the age of artificial intelligence to the issues of children’s privacy and the security of health data.
Several key themes in the field of data protection were in the spotlight during the conference, reflecting the challenges brought about by technological development and the need to adapt the legal framework to new conditions. One of the main discussion topics was the regulation of artificial intelligence and its intersection with data protection. Participants analyzed the interaction between the European Union’s new AI regulation and national legislation, and discussed how to ensure a balance between innovation and personal data protection requirements in AI-based solutions.
The protection of children’s data in the digital environment also received significant attention. Experts addressed the processing of children’s personal data in the context of technology and AI, highlighting the need for both stricter legal frameworks and broader public awareness.
The third major thematic focus was the security of health data. Considering the digitalization of healthcare and the increasing cross-border data flows, discussions emphasized the protection of sensitive data, data security, and patient rights. Experts exchanged experiences on how to ensure secure data processing while also fostering innovation in the healthcare sector.
During Spring Conference 2025, two new data protection authorities were officially accredited.
DVI’s participation and contribution to the Spring Conference 2025 reflect Latvia’s active role in international data protection processes, strengthening cooperation and joint efforts in the field of personal data security. The 34th conference will convene delegates next year in Turkey.
Image source: https://www.pdps.ge/en/