DCO Privacy Principles

May 2025

This official document introduces the DCO Privacy Principles, which are designed to establish a clear and consistent standard for the protection of personal data. Focused exclusively on personal data, these principles address the specific challenges that arise from processing data in the context of emerging technologies, including but not limited to Artificial Intelligence (AI).

As a foundational framework governing the processing of personal data, the DCO Privacy Principles are an integral component of the DCO Interoperability Mechanism, which facilitates the trusted transfer of personal data among DCO Member States.  While tailored to the DCO Member States, these Principles are also intended as a flexible, globally relevant framework for any government or entity seeking to strengthen its data protection policies. Representing a best-practice approach to responsible data governance in an increasingly digital and connected world, the principles do not extend to personal data processed for personal, family, or household activities that are unconnected to any professional or commercial undertakings.

The DCO Privacy Principles cover Lawfulness and Fairness, Purpose Limitation, Data Relevance, Data Quality, Transparency, Storage Limitation, Data Security, and Accountability.