Consultation on the development of a Children’s Privacy Code

Many jurisdictions, including the United Kingdom, California and Ireland, have benefited from the development of guidance or the adoption of legislation that requires organizations to adapt their data practices to address the unique needs and best interests of children.

Established codes of practice and special protections contained in legislation can empower children to exercise their privacy rights and protect against potential harms as they navigate online spaces.

A Canadian Children’s Privacy Code that addresses the handling of children’s personal information is important to ensure that children’s personal information is properly protected in this digital, data-driven world.

What we did

From May to August 2025, the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada (OPC) held an exploratory consultation on the development of a Children’s Privacy Code. As part of the consultation, the OPC held four roundtable discussions, including one with youth from across Canada.

The OPC’s consultation document put forward questions about how its current positions could be operationalized to ensure that private-sector organizations are implementing strong safeguards and transparent practices for handling children’s personal information, as well as providing effective tools for children to meaningfully exercise their privacy rights.

Exploratory consultation on the development of a Children’s Privacy Code – call for comments

What we heard

The OPC received 37 responses, including one joint response representing the views of more than 40 individuals and organizations. Responses came from a range of groups, including industry, civil society, academia, policy think tanks, legal professionals, and interested individuals.

Generally, respondents indicated that they would welcome a code of practice that would clarify the obligations of organizations for handling children’s personal information.

A full summary of the feedback can be found in the OPC’s Consultation on the Development of a Children’s Privacy Code – What We Heard report.

Results and next steps

Privacy Commissioner of Canada Philippe Dufresne’s Strategic Plan 2024-2027 identified championing children’s privacy rights as a key strategic priority. He announced his intention to develop a Children’s Privacy Code in May 2025, during a keynote address before privacy professionals at the IAPP Canada Privacy Symposium in Toronto.

The OPC is now preparing a Children’s Privacy Code that builds upon the feedback received during the exploratory consultation. The OPC will also continue to monitor national and international efforts to better protect children online as the Office strives to align the Children’s Privacy Code with other standards. Moreover, the OPC will continue to engage with youth through its Youth Council, to better understand their perspectives on privacy and to engage them in developing a youth-friendly version of the Children’s Privacy Code.

News release: Commissioner Dufresne launches exploratory consultation on Children’s Privacy Code