Statement by Privacy Commissioner of Canada to mark Data Privacy Week

January 26, 2026
Gatineau, Quebec

Privacy Commissioner of Canada Philippe Dufresne today issued the following statement to mark Data Privacy Week, which takes place January 26 to 30 this year.

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Data is one of the most important resources of the 21st century and managing it well is essential for ensuring that individuals and organizations can confidently reap the benefits of a digital society.

Data Privacy Week is an excellent opportunity to underscore the importance of data protection, as technologies become increasingly integrated into all areas of our personal and professional lives.

Prioritizing privacy by design is my Office’s theme for Data Privacy Week this year, which highlights the benefits to organizations of taking a proactive approach to protect the personal information that is in their care.

Embedding privacy into programs, products, and services can enable organizations to innovate responsibly, mitigate risks, build for the future, and earn public trust.

This is also why I continue to advocate for the modernization of Canada’s privacy laws to ensure that Canadians are protected in today’s digital, data-driven world, and to support businesses in ensuring that they have appropriate protections to operate successfully.

Canadians have real concerns about what happens to their personal information. Prioritizing privacy is a strategic opportunity for Canadians, for Canadian organizations, and for Canada in the world.

My Office offers tips and advice for individuals on how to protect personal information, including in a digital world, and provides resources to support organizations in prioritizing privacy in programs, policies, services, and initiatives. These include guidelines and principles to foster responsible innovation, such as in the use of generative AI technologies.

Let us work together to create a safer digital future for all, where privacy is everyone’s priority.

I invite everyone to take part in Data Privacy Week 2026. Join the conversation online, share and engage with content from the OPC’s account on LinkedIn, and use #DPW2026 to connect with others who are committed to advancing privacy in Canada and internationally.

Related links

• Resources: Data Privacy Week

Media contact

Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada
communications@priv.gc.ca