The evolution of digital rights in Hong Kong: Balancing innovation and privacy in the age of e-governance

This paper examines the evolution of digital rights in Hong Kong amid the city’s rapid e-governance initiatives. It analyses the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance (PDPO) in the context of artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain and big data, highlighting both the opportunities and privacy risks these technologies present, such as data breaches and surveillance overreach. Drawing on case studies of high-profile data breaches1,2,3 and comparing Hong Kong’s approach with the European Union (EU) General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), China’s Personal Information Protection Law (PIPL) and US frameworks,4 the paper underscores the crucial role of corporate boards in embedding privacy accountability and fostering a culture of trust through robust governance practices. The study also explores Hong Kong’s e-governance milestones, including the Digital 21 Strategy5 and AI ethical frameworks,6 to assess their impact on digital rights. It concludes that while Hong Kong has made important strides, more robust enforcement, mandatory breach notifications7 and cross-border regulatory alignment are needed to ensure that digital innovation enhances rather than undermines individual privacy rights. By proposing actionable recommendations for policy makers and organisations, this paper contributes to the global discourse on privacy law, offering insights for jurisdictions navigating the intersection of technology and human rights in the digital era. This article is also included in The Business & Management Collection which can be accessed at https://hstalks.com/business/.