TIRANA, May 8 /ATA/ The Office of the Commissioner for the Right to Information and Protection of Personal Data, in partnership with the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham), organized an informative forum with business representatives on improving standards for personal data protection in Albania, implementing the new law, as well as the challenges and solutions for businesses.
In his speech to AmCham members, Commissioner Dervishi highlighted that the new law introduces a host of innovations in personal data protection, directly impacting businesses as data controllers and processors. They are required to provide complete transparency in how they handle and manage this data.
Commissioner Dervishi emphasized that the new law provides enhanced protection for data subjects and more clearly outlines the rights and responsibilities of both controllers and processors. It broadens individuals’ rights over their personal data, including the right to access and rectify data, the right to opt out of automatic decisions, and the right to be forgotten, which compels businesses and online platforms to erase data that is no longer needed for the purpose for which it was collected.
He emphasized that businesses must take stronger measures to protect personal data against loss, unauthorized access, or misuse. Additionally, the law requires businesses to appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO), who will be responsible for overseeing compliance with the law and ensuring that appropriate measures are implemented.
“In addition to legal obligations, it is essential that we all change our approach to personal data protection. This is not just a legal requirement, but a necessary practice to build trust between businesses and citizens. Personal data is a valuable asset, and its protection should be a priority for every organization,” Dervishi further emphasized in his speech.
AmCham Executive Director Neritan Mullaj stated that the law enables businesses to become more competitive in both international and European markets.
However, he pointed out that the law is complex, highlighting the importance of ongoing cooperation and dialogue with the Commissioner’s Office.
“We need to raise awareness, as this will be a valuable law for our businesses,” Mullaj pointed out.
During the forum, Besa Velaj, Chief of Staff at the Commissioner’s Office and one of the lead experts behind the drafting of Albania’s personal data protection law and its implementation guidelines, provided valuable insights into the practical aspects of enforcement. She presented the methodology used to calculate administrative sanctions and shed light on the key challenges businesses face in aligning with the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
Albana Karapanço, who leads AmCham’s Committee on Legal, Regulatory, and Intellectual Property Rights, underscored the need for greater awareness and the use of practical examples to clearly demonstrate how regulatory tools will be applied in the enforcement of the new law.
The Commissioner’s Office will maintain open communication with businesses and will hold ongoing training sessions, as well as additional discussion forums, to enhance capacities and ensure the full implementation of the new personal data protection law.
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