Skopje, 19 October 2023 (MIA) - Government, civil society and academic institutions should educate citizens, especially the youth, on how to use digital tools and artificial intelligence but also how to protect personal data and privacy, heard conference "Protection of Privacy in the Digital Era: In Pursuit for Common Solutions" organized by the Metamorphosis Foundation and Association Konekt, supported by the European Union.

Minister of Information Society and Administration Azir Aliu said citizens should work on their digital profile that is becoming increasingly important, sometimes even most important when acquiring a service, in state institutions or in job applications. He believes that every citizen will need a digital profile in a decade from now, and this is one of the reasons why young people should be educated, by ministries, public institutions and civil society.

"Digital processes are in the focus of the Ministry's work. Research has shown that citizens do not trust the security of the digital infrastructure," said Aliu and urged civil society organizations to inform the youth that digital services are fast and safe if used properly.

The Minister added that a draft-law on protection of information systems has already been developed, including the formation of a digital transformation agency focusing on four pillars - digital infrastructure, innovative and systemic solutions in the digital world, cybersecurity, "and most importantly, training".

Maria Kanellopoulou from the EU Delegation in Skopje highlighted the importance to work on personal data protection and privacy, which is one of the Union's main priorities.

The conference, held within project “Privacy by Design – building an inclusive digital ecosystem”, focuses on the protection of digital rights and the activities of various stakeholders aimed at promoting and developing capacities for the protection of privacy and other human rights on the internet.