Bangladesh Urged to Establish Robust Data Protection Regime

Bangladesh has been urged to establish a comprehensive data protection regime that prioritizes the protection of human rights. The call to action comes from Article 19, a global organization that advocates for freedom of expression and information. According to Article 19, Bangladesh’s current data protection landscape is inadequate, leaving citizens’ personal data vulnerable to misuse and exploitation. The organization emphasizes that a robust data protection regime is essential for ensuring the right to privacy, freedom of expression, and access to information. A well-crafted data protection law would provide a framework for the collection, storage, and use of personal data, while also establishing safeguards against data breaches and unauthorized use. Furthermore, such a regime would promote transparency and accountability in the handling of personal data, which is critical for building trust in institutions and fostering a culture of openness. Article 19 notes that Bangladesh has made significant progress in recent years, including the adoption of the Digital Security Act 2018, but more needs to be done to address the gaps in the country’s data protection framework. The organization recommends that Bangladesh’s data protection regime be based on international standards, such as the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). This would involve establishing an independent data protection authority, implementing data protection principles, and providing individuals with rights to access and control their personal data. Additionally, Article 19 suggests that Bangladesh should prioritize the protection of sensitive data, such as biometric information, and ensure that data processing is carried out in a fair and transparent manner. The organization also emphasizes the importance of public awareness and education on data protection issues, as well as the need for capacity building among stakeholders, including government officials, civil society organizations, and the private sector. By adopting a robust data protection regime, Bangladesh can demonstrate its commitment to protecting human rights and promoting digital development. This, in turn, can help to foster economic growth, improve public services, and enhance the country’s reputation as a responsible and trustworthy partner in the global digital economy. Moreover, a strong data protection regime can also help to mitigate the risks associated with data breaches, cybercrime, and other forms of digital threats. In conclusion, the establishment of a comprehensive data protection regime is a critical step towards promoting human rights, transparency, and accountability in Bangladesh. Article 19 urges the government to take immediate action to address the gaps in the country’s data protection framework and to establish a regime that prioritizes the protection of human rights and aligns with international standards. The organization believes that this can be achieved through a collaborative effort between the government, civil society, and the private sector, and that it is essential for promoting digital development and protecting the rights of citizens in Bangladesh. The call to action is not only relevant to Bangladesh but also has implications for the broader region, as a robust data protection regime can help to promote regional cooperation and stability. Ultimately, the adoption of a comprehensive data protection regime is a critical step towards promoting human rights, transparency, and accountability in Bangladesh, and Article 19 remains committed to supporting this effort. The organization will continue to work with stakeholders to promote awareness and understanding of data protection issues and to advocate for the adoption of a robust data protection regime that prioritizes the protection of human rights. In the coming months, Article 19 plans to engage in a range of activities, including research, advocacy, and capacity building, to support the development of a comprehensive data protection regime in Bangladesh. The organization believes that this effort will not only promote human rights but also contribute to the country’s digital development and economic growth. By working together, stakeholders can help to establish a data protection regime that is robust, effective, and aligned with international standards, and that prioritizes the protection of human rights and the promotion of transparency and accountability.

Source