The protection of personal data is a human right and the foundation of European values, announced Minister of the Interior Danilo Šaranović.
As announced by the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MUP), Šaranović spoke yesterday at the opening of the International Conference on Personal Data Protection, emphasizing the importance of harmonizing the domestic legislative framework with European standards, especially in the context of Montenegro's integration process.
"Addressing representatives of institutions, data protection experts and international partners, he stressed that the protection of personal data must not be treated solely as a legal issue, but as a fundamental human right and one of the key pillars of European democracy," the statement said.
"This must be the starting point of all reform processes in this area, because only in this way can we ensure substantial and sustainable results," said Šaranović.
He said that Montenegro remains firmly committed to building a personal data protection system that is not only aligned with European legislation, but also fundamentally responds to the needs of citizens, modern challenges and technological progress.
"By adopting the new law and strengthening institutional capacities, the state clearly demonstrates that privacy protection is no longer just a legal obligation, but a social and democratic value of the highest importance," said Šaranović.
He added that Montenegro, as a country aspiring to EU membership, is working intensively on harmonizing legislation, including the Law on Personal Data Protection, "which is the result of joint work by representatives of Montenegrin institutions and international experts."
"He also confirmed Montenegro's readiness to consider all recommendations of the European Commission at this stage of the process, if necessary for harmonisation with the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which he cited as evidence of the political will and determination of the Government to implement key reforms on the path to accession to the European Union," the Ministry of Internal Affairs said.
"Our commitment is not to merely formally fulfill obligations on the European path, but to build a system in which the protection of personal data represents a real guarantee of the rights, dignity and freedom of every citizen. The law is an important step, but the true value comes through its consistent and responsible implementation," Šaranović emphasized.
It is stated that Šaranović, speaking about the challenges of the digital age, emphasized that Montenegro recognizes the important role of data protection in the context of cybersecurity and the development of artificial intelligence, and that he announced cooperation with international partners with the aim of further strengthening systems and capacities in the digital environment.
"Minister Šaranović also pointed out the importance of strengthening the Agency for Personal Data Protection and Free Access to Information through the professionalization of its work and financial independence, which, as he emphasized, will ensure the stability and efficiency of its functioning without external pressures," the statement reads.
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