Presidential programme for 2025-2027 Sets Targets to align with eu standards

The Medium-Term Presidential Programme covering the years 2025-2027 (the “Programme”) was published in the Official Gazette on 30 October 2024 under issue numbered 32707 and was approved by Presidential Decree No 9074. The Programme outlines new targets concerning personal data protection legislation in line with the recent amendments made to Law No 6698 on the Protection of Personal Data (the “Law“). 

The Programme sets out the following key objectives for the upcoming year in respect of data protection:  

• Harmonisation with the GDPR 

The harmonisation of Law No. 6698 on the Protection of Personal Data with the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (the “GDPR”) is aimed to be completed in 2025. It should be noted that, as a preliminary step towards this harmonisation, significant amendments were already made to the  Law in the first quarter of 2024 as part of Türkiye’s Economic Reforms Action Plan and the Human Rights Action Plan. Key changes included earlier this year (i) enhanced regulations on the processing of sensitive personal data and (ii) introduced new methods facilitating the secure transfer of personal data across borders.¹  

• Digital Competition and Trade 

The Programme emphasises the need to finalise support policies and preparations for international agreements in order to bolster competition in the digital sector. In this respect, the effects of the European Union’s digital regulations on Türkiye’s export activities is expected to be thoroughly examined and a strategic plan to be developed accordingly.

• Securing Access to the EPREL Database 

Access to the European Energy Labelling (EPREL) database will be secured with the necessary safeguards to protect trade secrets and personal data. Continuous collaboration with the European Commission will be maintained to ensure these protections are upheld.

• Digital Transformation and National Standards 

The digital transformation of the business and investment environment will require the establishment of national standards. These standards will adhere to the principles of interoperability, safety, personal data protection, inclusivity, sustainability and international cooperation, while aligning with international benchmarks.

The Programme’s targets for 2025 reflect a comprehensive approach to enhance personal data protection and foster a competitive digital economy. These initiatives are expected to positively impact Türkiye’s regulatory landscape and its integration with EU data protection standards.