Biz Latin Hub’s Ecuador Country Manager, Diego Alvarez, has been announced as a founding partner of the new non-profit organization, the Ecuadorian Association for Data Protection (AEPD).
Diego is teaming up with other legal experts to promote protection and respect in the world of cybersecurity, privacy and data. The topic is of growing interest to Ecuador, especially as it works to develop an investment-friendly environment in this space.
“It’s a very interesting initiative with growing importance in businesses worldwide,” he says. “Here in Ecuador, we don’t have as high a level of capability in this space as other countries. Companies must understand the importance of incorporating these considerations into their strategy.”
Data Protection in Ecuador? Supporting increased data protection capability
AEPD aims to raise awareness of issues and international cases relating to data and privacy ethics, and integrate like-minded professionals to build a strong foundation and network for support in Ecuador. AEPD will provide businesses with support and technical and legal advice, work with the government to bolster regulations around data protection, and promote greater training and education in the country.
“We aim to connect three elements of the data protection picture: the public sector, private sector, and universities working in this space.”
AEPD’s first order of business over the coming months is to provide a comprehensive analysis of the country’s newly drafted data protection law. Before a bill is submitted to National Congress, it must be floated publicly and analyzed by experts. The data protection organization has already played a part in drafting the bill.
Data Protection – Official launch 24 July
The organization was founded on 23 May, 2019, and will officially launch on 24 July, with an inaugural cocktail event in Quito, Ecuador. Senior executives in large multinationals such as Microsoft and IBM will be in attendance, along with experts in the field.
The event will see key addresses from the organization’s President, Pablo Daniel Solines Moreno, along with government officials from key information security agencies.
How is Biz Latin Hub involved?
We’re proud to support Ecuador’s developing awareness and capability in data protection. As big data and information security become increasingly contentious contemporary issues worldwide, commercial and government entities must collaborate to build robust regulations and networks for actors in this space.
We work with foreign businesses entering Latin American markets, offering customized legal, financial, and corporate services to assist their formation and expansion. Part of this is making sure they’re aware of their compliance requirements in their new environment. AEPD is working toward providing a clear framework for our clients when moving into Ecuador’s commercial environment.