Benefits of data protection regulation come at a price
Any kind of regulation that limits a variety of human activity will likely stifle innovation
GDPR will be remembered as one of the most laudable actions the EU has ever taken on behalf of its citizens. File photograph: Getty
The success of General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) as a legislative firewall against the exploitation of individuals’ digital rights to privacy is critical if we are to avoid a dystopian future of constant government surveillance and corporate interests invading our very existence. Sadly, however, it is a few bad apples ruining it for everyone else because, believe it or not, some groups out there would like to use our data for good.
GDPR is arguably the most citizen-focused government initiative seen in the west for decades. Politics for the people is a rare thing in capitalist society. Corporate interests trump individual rights more and more. GDPR is one example of EU governance we should all get behind.