Our Authority, in collaboration with Bilkent University Faculty of Law, organized the second International Congress on Personal Data Protection in Ankara on 16-17 November, following the inaugural event held in 2021.

The Congress brought together esteemed speakers who engaged in discussions covering 32 diverse topics related to the protection of personal data. Among the distinguished attendees were Prof. Dr. Faruk BİLİR, President of KVKK, members of the Personal Data Protection Board, Bilkent University Vice Rector Erdal EREL, Bilkent University Faculty of Law Dean Ece GÖZTEPE ÇELEBİ, Bulgarian Data Protection Authority President Ventsislav KARADJOV, Georgian Data Protection Authority Private Sector Oversight Unit President Archil JAVELIDZE, as well as representatives from public institutions, academicians, various professional groups, private sector entities, and international data protection authorities.

Under the theme of "A Priority in the Digital Age: Privacy", the Congress was commenced with the opening speech delivered by Prof. Dr. Faruk BİLİR, where he discussed current developments in personal data protection and provided an overview of the Authority's activities in 2023.

“Technology and privacy are not opposing concepts"

In his speech, BİLİR emphasized that technological advancements gain significance when aligned with human values, citing the protection of individual privacy as a key value. Asserting that fundamental principle behind the idea of protecting personal data is to safeguard individual privacy, BİLİR expressed, "Technology and privacy are not opposing concepts. By striking a reasonable balance, it is possible to unite technology and privacy."

"Establishing guidelines for AI applications is essential”

Emphasizing the positive impact of artificial intelligence on human life, BİLİR stressed the importance of leveraging technologies like AI and reminded the crucial role personal data plays in enhancing AI capabilities.

While acknowledging the opportunities presented by artificial intelligence, BİLİR also cautioned against overlooking potential negative consequences. He underlined the need to establish clear rules for AI applications, stating: "It is crucial to define decisions made by AI systems clearly and comprehend the processes behind these decisions in terms of transparency and accountability. Identifying factors that may lead to discrimination or victimization is of great importance in preventing potential issues that may arise."

BİLİR further referenced the previous publication titled "Recommendations on the Protection of Personal Data in the Field of Artificial Intelligence" prepared by the Authority. Furthermore, he shared the new studies on both "artificial intelligence" and "generative AI" carried out by the Authority. BİLİR also announced that "Recommendations on the Protection of Privacy in Mobile Applications" will be shared with the public in the near future.

“The Congress contributed to the field of data protection”

Continuing his speech, BİLİR emphasized the crucial role of protecting personal data as an essential component for ensuring the compatibility of technology with human rights. He said, "The awareness of individuals holds equal significance alongside legal regulations in the field of personal data protection. Because, adequate individual awareness enhances the effectiveness of personal data protection. Thus, cultivating a consciousness of personal data protection among the public mind is important.”

Drawing attention to the productive outcomes of the 2nd International Congress on Personal Data Protection, both in terms of academic achievements and its impact on raising awareness, BİLİR expressed that the Congress has earned distinction as an exemplary event in the area of personal data protection thanks to the topics covered and the valuable contributions of experts, which collectively advance the field of personal data protection.