Contributions – Identity in the virtual world

Identity creation is an ongoing process, shaped by the elements that constitute it, such as gender or sexual orientation. These are equally influenced by new ways to understand them. Alongside such classic aspects of identity, we find that shared values can also be a part of said concept, as is the case with democracy, the rule of law, or respect for human rights.

In our current world, characterised by technology and interconnectedness, personal data are a key player. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is constantly being developed, particularly through the feeding of personal data, which poses risks to fundamental rights in terms of respect for private and family life, among others, and encouraged the EU´s attempt to regulate AI through the AI Regulation in conjunction with previous legislation, such as the General Data Protection Regulation.

I believe the current scenario makes it necessary to analyse these recent developments as well as the EU´s approach on the passing of the aforementioned legislation and whether they sufficiently safeguard EU citizens´ fundamental rights against unlawful or abusive uses of personal data by public authorities in fields like judicial cooperation in criminal matters. Even though crime investigation and prosecution are paramount to our safety, both inside and outside the virtual world, respect for the rights of victims and perpetrators in the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice are core values of our identity as EU citizens and should, therefore, be adequately protected against any violations or excessive limitations.

Through the examination and discussion of the notion of identity, its elements, and their interplay with the Law we will be able to contribute to the development of the first, in addition to offering practical and realistic means for its safeguarding.