Technology

A majority of 94.21 percent of voters in Geneva in Switzerland have voted for protecting the individual against abusive data processing and for the right to an offline life. The Right to Digital Integrity is now being incorporated into the constitution of the canton of Geneva, Switzerland.

The vote on 18 June went far beyond the right to privacy. This fundamental right enshrines principles related to digital integrity, particularly the right to be protected against the abusive processing of data related to their digital life, the right to digital security, the right to an offline life and the right to be forgotten.

The amendment reads:

“ 1. Everyone has the right to safeguard their digital integrity.

2. Digital integrity includes the right to be protected against abusive processing of data related to his digital life, the right to security in the digital space, the right to an offline life as well as the right to forgetting.

3. Processing of personal data for which the responsibility lies with the state can only operate abroad if adequate protection is provided.

4. This constitutional law commits the state to promote digital inclusion and raises awareness of the digital issues. It invites the State of Geneva to play an active role in the development of Swiss digital sovereignty.“

[Automated translation with minimal corrections by the human author.]

Here is the amendment in French (pdf): https://ge.ch/grandconseil/data/texte/PL12945B.pdf