In November, the administration proposed that everyone over the age of twelve should have a legal obligation to identify themselves. It was also suggested that, with a view to aiding the fight against crime and terrorism, all telecommunication traffic data should be retained for an extended period. The Dutch DPA is very concerned that a simplistic introduction of greater police powers could seriously undermine the rights and interests of ordinary citizens.
Furthermore, the Dutch DPA strongly refutes the notion that privacy protection acts as a barrier to the resolution of social problems by hindering cooperation between various authorities. It is the Dutch DPA’s conviction, borne out by experience, that privacy protection is one of the success factors for effective government.
There are very few legitimate government objectives whose realisation may be impeded by privacy rules. Provided, that is, that such rules are taken into account from the outset in the design of organisational structures, information systems and procedures and the formulation of policy.