The intricate balance between data protection and freedom of expression has emerged as a critical issue within the realm of journalism. The 2018 adoption of the Law on Data Protection by the Government of Serbia marked a significant step in aligning national legislation with the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). This law enshrines the necessity of reconciling the right to personal data protection, as prescribed by the GDPR, with the equally fundamental right to freedom of expression.

With the possibility for amendment of this Law on the horizon, the Division for Co-operation on Freedom of Expression assisted the Commissioner for Information of Public Importance and Personal Data Protection through a focus group involving civil society organisations. The activity, supported by EU and Council of Europe aimed at evaluating the law's implementation and identifying potential improvements, with particular emphasis on safeguarding freedom of expression.

The discussion addressed the scope of the Commissioner's competencies as promulgated by the Law, particularly in the context of providing opinions on other sector-specific laws that require careful consideration regarding data processing. Insights from civil society organisations, including journalists' associations, will be incorporated into a Policy Advice Paper to the Commissioner.

This focus group was organised by the Division for Cooperation on Freedom of Expression, through the action “Protecting freedom of expression and of the media in Serbia (PROFREX)”, which is part of the joint European Union - Council of Europe programme “Horizontal Facility for the Western Balkans and Türkiye”.