Data Protection as a Fundamental Right in the Digital Society
Keywords:
data protection; fundamental right; digital; AI; GDPRAbstract
This paper, examines the development of privacy and data protection rights in Europe through Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) and Article 8 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union (CFREU). It highlights how these legal provisions establish strong safeguards for private life and personal data. The study explains the balance between individual rights and legitimate public interests such as national security and public safety. Particular attention is given to the role of the GDPR in strengthening data protection and regulating lawful data processing. The interaction between European legislation and judicial decisions is also explored. Landmark cases such as Google Spain v. AEPD and S. and Marper v. United Kingdom demonstrate the importance of protecting personal information and privacy. The paper further analyses how technological innovation and globalization have increased privacy concerns across Europe. It argues that privacy is a fundamental aspect of human dignity and personal freedom. The research concludes that European legal systems continue to adapt in order to ensure effective data protection in the digital age
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