Cross-Border Data Flows and Privacy Rights: Reconciling International Norms with National Security
Keywords:
Data Governance, Privacy Protection, Digital Sovereignty, Regulatory Compliance, International Agreements, Cybersecurity Policy, Personal Information Rights, Transnational Data TransfersAbstract
The rapid growth of digital technologies and globalization has made cross-border data flows a key driver of economic growth, innovation, and governance. However, these flows raise significant concerns over privacy and national security, creating tensions between international norms and domestic regulations. This study explores legal and policy frameworks governing cross-border data transfers, including international agreements like the EU–US Data Privacy Framework and APEC Cross-Border Privacy Rules, alongside national laws such as China’s Data Security Law and U.S. cross-border transfer rules. Using qualitative research, comparative legal analysis, and policy review, the study highlights challenges from divergent regulations, ethical concerns over privacy erosion, and compliance burdens for multinational entities. Findings emphasize that reconciling international data mobility with security and privacy requires multilateral cooperation, strong data protection mechanisms, transparency, and independent oversight. Balanced strategies are essential to ensure data flow, safeguard privacy, and mitigate security risks in the digital era
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