Today is a bittersweet day at the Brussels Privacy Hub as we gather to celebrate the retirement of our esteemed founder and distinguished scholar, Prof. Christopher Kuner from the Hub. With profound gratitude and heartfelt appreciation, we pay tribute to a remarkable individual who has dedicated his life to advancing the field of data protection. Prof. Kuner’s journey in the realm of data protection has been nothing short of extraordinary. His unwavering commitment to research, teaching, and advocacy has significantly shaped the landscape of this critical domain. Through his mentorship and guidance, Prof. Kuner has empowered a new generation of scholars, instilling in them a deep appreciation for the challenges and opportunities within this complex field.
Although retired from the VUB, we are delighted that Prof. Kuner will remain an integral part of the Brussels Privacy Hub, acting as an honorary advisor, as well as remaining active in the data protection law world in other capacities. His invaluable expertise and profound insights will continue to enrich our endeavours, guiding us as we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of data protection. On behalf of the entire team at Brussels Privacy Hub, we express our deepest gratitude to Prof. Kuner for his unwavering dedication and invaluable contributions to the field of data protection.
As we bid farewell to Prof. Kuner, we are excited to welcome two exceptional individuals who will join the Brussels Privacy Hub team, ensuring a seamless transition and the continuation of our mission. We are honoured to announce that Prof. Sophie Stalla-Bourdillon and Juraj Sajfert will join, respectively, as Co-Director (together with Prof. Gianclaudio Malgieri) and Vice Director.
Prof. Stalla-Bourdillon is a distinguished and well-known professor in the field of data protection and the Editor-in-Chief of Computer Law & Security Review, one of the world’s top-ranking journals in our field. Her groundbreaking research and extensive experience will undoubtedly propel us forward, opening new avenues for exploration and innovation. Juraj Sajfert is a seasoned expert in data protection with a rich background spanning both academia and European institutions.
The arrival of Sohpie Stalla-Bourdillon and Juraj Sajfert marks an exciting new chapter for the Brussels Privacy Hub. With their unique blend of academic rigor and practical expertise and their esteemed reputations and deep understanding of data protection, we are confident we will further strengthen the ability of the Brussels Privacy Hub to continue delivering excellence in the activities we pursue. Together, as a diverse and dynamic team, we will build upon the foundations laid by Prof. Kuner and Prof. De Hert, embracing new challenges and collectively shaping a future that respects and protects the privacy of individuals in an increasingly interconnected world.