The current case law of the European Court of Human Rights on privacy: challenges in the digital age

Abstract

ABSTRACT The right to privacy is one of the rights enshrined in international human rights law. However, with the increasing digitalisation of modern life, protecting one’s privacy has become more complicated. Both state and non-state organisations make frequent interventions in citizens’ private lives. Legislations exist to ensure such interventions are carried out proportionately and with the permission of the relevant authorities. In this article a close look will be taken at Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights, its historical origins, definition and scope. The article will also examine current case law of the European Court of Human Rights in the light of the current developments in the digital world.