Federal, Provincial and Territorial Information and Privacy Commissioners and Ombuds gathered in Ottawa this week to explore ways to continue to foster public trust in democratic institutions through transparency, privacy protection and independent oversight.  

 Hosted by Information Commissioner of Canada Caroline Maynard and Privacy Commissioner of Canada Philippe Dufresne, the annual meeting brought together information and privacy regulators from across the country to discuss their role of independent regulators and exchange perspectives on shared opportunities and challenges facing their respective jurisdictions. 

 Privacy-related discussions focused on the opportunities and challenges associated with emerging technologies, including AI, quantum computing, and advanced data-processing systems. Participants examined the interconnection of privacy and cross-border data flows, digital sovereignty, and national resilience. 

 Participants also discussed how access to information supports transparency and public understanding of government decision-making. They explored how new technologies are changing the way in which government records are created and managed, and the implications for access rights. 

 Meeting participants heard from experts representing government, academia, industry, civil society and the legal community on issues shaping the future of access to information and privacy protection across Canada.  

 “As data-driven technologies continue to evolve and expand rapidly, collaboration across federal, provincial and territorial jurisdictions is essential to protect the privacy of Canadians. Prioritizing privacy at this pivotal time by ensuring appropriate protections for personal information supports responsible innovation and fosters trust in organizations and the digital economy,” said Philippe Dufresne, Privacy Commissioner of Canada.