The Centre for Democracy & Technology Europe (CDT Europe) has launched a Spyware Coordination Group aimed at combating the misuse of spyware technologies within the European Union. This initiative, announced on October 1, 2024, during the Tech and Society Summit, involves 16 civil society and journalist organizations focused on ensuring democracy, transparency, and accountability in relation to spyware use.
Silvia Lorenzo Perez, CDT Europe's Security, Surveillance and Human Rights Program Director, spoke at a U.S. Department of State event emphasizing that modern spyware poses significant threats to democratic values. She praised the U.S. Government's efforts in addressing commercial spyware abuse and encouraged further diplomatic engagement with EU institutions.
In response to concerns about spyware use in Slovakia and Greece, CDT Europe and its partners have urged the European Parliament to take action. They highlighted privacy violations linked to tools like Pegasus and Predator and called for robust legislative frameworks to protect fundamental rights.
At the Tech and Society Summit, CDT Europe's Secretary General Asha Allen participated in discussions on engaging civil society in policymaking processes. The summit also addressed crafting an effective EU digital enforcement strategy focusing on societal approaches rather than individual regulations.
David Klotsonis from CDT Europe discussed the Digital Services Act (DSA) with Open Government Partnership members. He stressed the importance of risk assessments by large online platforms to enhance transparency and user trust.
CDT provided feedback to France's Data Protection Authority regarding GDPR guidance for AI systems. They emphasized protecting data subject rights and questioned using "legitimate interests" as a legal basis for AI data training.
During POLITICO Live’s event on AI governance in elections, Asha Allen shared insights into AI's impact on democratic processes. She noted that while new laws are promising steps forward, their effectiveness against AI-generated disinformation remains uncertain.
Upcoming events include Laura Lazaro Cabrera participating in the Democracy Alive Summit post-U.S. elections discussing AI challenges during elections. Silvia Lorenzo Perez will attend spyware-focused sessions at the Paris Peace Forum.
