The Data Protection Bill, aimed at protecting the personal data of Pakistani users, has been pending for several years. Security agencies have expressed concern about insufficient cross-border data protection and stressed the urgency of passing the law.
As of 2018, several bills have been created, but disagreements between stakeholders have prevented any progress.
Minister of State for IT Shaza Fatima Khawaja is now spearheading the push for its early approval. The deadline for the completion of the proposal is set for the end of July, the presentation of the bill in parliament is expected in August.
International social media platforms, including Facebook, have expressed reservations about some provisions of the law.
Minister Shaza Fatima says she has engaged in discussions with international stakeholders to address these concerns. “We had two meetings with international stakeholders regarding the Data Protection Act,” Shaza Fatima said in an interview with Private TV Channel.
A key issue revolves around cross-border data transfer, which she says she is trying to solve. “We said that sensitive data must not cross the border,” Shaza Fatima emphasized.
She acknowledged the differing views on cyber security and open data policies between the Pakistani government and international social media companies. “International companies have been informed that even after the approval of the bill in its current form, amendments can be made,” she added.
The Minister of State assured that once the law is finalized, it will be presented to Parliament for approval in August. “The law on the protection of personal data in any form will be submitted to parliament in August for approval,” Shaza Fatima confirmed, adding: “The law is not set in stone; if there is any problem, it can be amended later as well.”
