PETs as a tool for privacy-conscious data use

**Privacy Enhancing Technologies Emerge as Key Enabler for Data-Driven Public Sector Initiatives** In anticipation of Europe's Privacy Day on January 28th, a growing focus is being placed on Privacy Enhancing Technologies (PETs) as crucial tools for responsible data utilization within the public sector. These sophisticated techniques enable organizations to derive valuable insights from data without compromising the privacy of individuals. PETs allow for the use, combination, and analysis of data while ensuring that personal information remains protected and non-identifiable. The core function of PETs lies in their ability to facilitate data-driven work within established legal frameworks, particularly the GDPR. As European governments increasingly rely on data for policy-making, oversight, and service delivery, the demand for secure data sharing and collaboration intensifies. PETs address this tension by empowering public bodies to leverage data effectively for improved operations while upholding stringent privacy standards. Despite their potential, PETs are currently underutilized and not widely understood across many organizations, highlighting a significant knowledge gap. There is a clear need for greater clarity on their practical application and effective implementation strategies. Initiatives like the National Innovation Centre for Privacy Enhancing Technologies (NICPET) are actively working to bridge this gap by fostering knowledge sharing, providing practical examples, and exploring the technical, governance, and legal aspects of PETs to support informed decision-making.