The updated HELP online course on Data Protection and Privacy Rights has been officially published and is now opened for enrolment. The course was initially developed in 2016 and subsequently updated twice, in 2019 and 2026, under the auspices of the Council of Europe Human Rights Education for Legal Professionals (HELP) Programme and the Council of Europe Data Protection Unit.
The updated course guides learners through foundational legal concepts, key principles and applicable standards under the Council of Europe and European Union data protection acquis. The course explores the data subjects’ rights and their enforcement mechanisms, as well as applicable rules on transborder flow of personal data. It also examines challenges posed by new and emerging technologies, and the processing of specific categories of personal data in various sectors and domains, including, the healthcare, the workplace, the media and its intersection with the freedom of expression. The course further elaborates on data protection standards relating to cloud computing, video surveillance, the Internet of Things, blockchain, profiling and AI.
The updated course reflects a comprehensive revision designed to align with current developments in the field, as well as applicable standards under the Convention for the Protection of Individuals with regard to Automatic Processing of Personal Data (CETS No. 108) and its Amending Protocol (CETS 223) and the standard-setting guidance developed by the Consultative Committee of Convention 108 (T-PD).
The course is available in a self-learning format and takes approximately 9 hours to complete. Upon completion, users can generate an electronic Statements of Accomplishment in proof of their acquired knowledge and skills. Prospective participants are invited to enrol through the HELP Platform. Detailed information along with the course brief is available at DPPR ENG SL | HELP Programme.
