As frontier technologies, artificial intelligence and data-driven technologies transform how personal information is collected, shared and used across the world, protecting privacy increasingly requires international cooperation. To support this cooperation, the Global Privacy Assembly (GPA) brings together 130 privacy and data protection regulators and enforcement authorities from around the world, operating at local, national and international levels. The GPA serves as an important platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and coordinated action to safeguard fundamental rights in the face of emerging privacy challenges.
Since 2021, the premier global forum for privacy and data protection authorities established its Reference Panel, a group of 15 experts from around the world to support the GPA and its members by providing expert knowledge and practical expertise on data protection and privacy, as well as on related issues and developments in information technology. Through its multidisciplinary expertise, the Panel helps equip regulators with the ability to identify cross-disciplinary policy solutions to privacy and data protection issues.
To provide strategic insight and informed perspectives for the 2026-2028 term, the GPA Reference Panel will now count on the expertise of Dr. Teresa Scassa, the Canada Research Chair in Information Law and Policy, a Faculty member of the Centre for Law, Technology and Society, and a Full Professor in the Faculty of Law, Common Law Section at the University of Ottawa.
“I am honoured to be part of this distinguished group of experts and am looking forward to contributing to the challenging issues at the forefront of privacy law.”
Dr. Teresa Scassa
Over the next two years, Dr. Scassa will join the global group of experts to share her knowledge and experience and enhance the GPA’s understanding of the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the rapidly evolving global privacy landscape.
Dr. Scassa is one of the most respected and accomplished privacy thought leaders in Canada. Her recent research examines responsible and equitable AI governance and real-world privacy issues arising from emerging technologies, with a focus on AI regulation, data governance, privacy, and digital sovereignty. She serves on several advisory bodies, including the Ontario Information and Privacy Commissioner’s Strategic Advisory Council and the Ontario Health Data Council.
Congratulations to Dr. Scassa!