We are a partner of the Human Rights, Big Data and Technology Project (HRBDT) housed at the University of Essex’s Human Rights Centre.
This five years project aims to map and analyse the human rights challenges and opportunities presented by the use of big data and associated technologies. It notably examines whether fundamental human rights concepts and approaches need to be updated and adapted to meet the new realities of the digital age.
By bringing together academics and experts from the human rights field, the United Nations (UN), technology and Internet industries, the project intends to develop good practice guidelines and to propose rights-based regulatory responses and remedies to ensure effective human rights enjoyment and protection.
Focus on Regulation of State and Non-State Actors in the Use of Big Data Technology
Our participation in the project focuses, via academic research, on issues related to regulation of state and non-state actors in the use of big data and technology. We particularly analyse whether existing regulatory frameworks and mechanisms – like the European Union General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) – are apt to regulate big data and associated technologies while ensuring human rights protection. Drawing from existing regulation theories, the research intends to highlight alternative regulatory approaches that could be used to inform or update current legislation.
Support to Outreach Activities in Geneva
We also provide support for the project’s outreach activities in Geneva with UN human rights mechanisms, diplomats, academics and practitioners via public events, expert meetings and consultations.
