Global brands and world experts in privacy will be in Jersey next week for what has been dubbed the Olympic Games of the data protection sector.

The island is hosting the 46th Global Privacy Assembly, bringing together 400 delegates from 60 countries and tech names including Apple, Microsoft, TikTok, Google and Meta.

They are here to discuss rules for, and threats to, keeping our information safe.

Paul Vane, Jersey’s Information Commissioner, says it is a major showcase:

"Think of it as the data protection version of the Olympic Games.  That is probably the scale we are talking about because of the global reach it has, and the amount of international delegates that will be coming and speaking.

 "We have got in the region of 50-60 countries represented, and then global brands Meta, Google, Microsoft, TikTok, HP, Johnson and Johnson - all big names that people will be familiar with.

"This is great for our economy, great for tourism  It puts Jersey on the map in terms of our regulatory regime here.

"It's a once in a lifetime thing.  I can't under-estimate at all how big this is for Jersey to be represented in this way."

 Paul Vane, Jersey's Information Commissioner

Islanders and businesses were able to register to attend events, and those who missed the opportunity can still join virtually to watch the sessions and keynote speakers.

Virtual registration is open until midnight on Saturday (26 October) Islanders can register at www.gpajersey.com

Jersey speakers will include Kate White from FREEDA,  EYECAN CEO Mark Coxshall representing the charities sector, and business consultant and author Douglas Kruger.

International attendees include futurist speak and think-tank leader Nikolas Badminton and Massimo Marelli, Head of the Data Protection Office at the International Committee of the Red Cross.