CUILS Webinar: 'The GDPR and International Organizations: Soft Enforcement, Hard Navigation?'

Hosted by the Cambridge University International Law Society

Speakers:

- Dr Fernando Lusa Bordin (University Lecturer in International Law; John Thornely Fellow in Law, Sidney Sussex College; Fellow, Lauterpacht Centre for International Law, University of Cambridge)
- Dr Francesco Messineo (Legal Officer, Office of the Legal Counsel, Office of Legal Affairs, United Nations Secretariat)

Despite the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) having been applied for almost three years, international organizations continue to face significant uncertainties with regards to its operation. In particular, questions have arisen regarding “soft enforcement” of the GDPR through its application to data transferred to international organizations by their (contractual) partners, members and third parties. Last year, the Legal Counsel of the United Nations even questioned whether this amounted to “over-implementation” of the Regulation, noting challenges that had emerged such as the UN’s difficulty concluding contracts and disruptions to the flow of data between UNHCR and "providers of essential and vital care for refugees”. At the same time, concerns have been expressed regarding the data protection standards and practices of organizations such as the UN, in light of their privileges and immunities. During this talk, Dr Fernando Lusa Bordin and Dr Francesco Messineo will explore these implications of GDPR “soft enforcement” in relation to international organizations and will look to the future to consider which legal developments are likely and which would be desirable.

Registration is required, everyone is welcome to attend. Please email Caroline Armstrong Hall (nca27@cam.ac.uk) with any questions regarding the event.