Notes from the Asia-Pacific region: Add your voice to the privacy, governance discussion

There are so many externalities that seem to be competing for our attention these days, and drawing us from one extreme to another. The passing of Pope Francis on Easter Monday was a somber moment, indeed, and yet, somehow reminded us all that there are things happening in the world beyond the news cycle of recent months. The daily lurching, back and forth of the global economic tide has certainly led to some fatigue and stress, with a side order of uncertainty for policymakers, investment markets and the broader community. Having spent a few decades in the financial markets, I've learned that this too shall pass and to have faith that we will all come out of it a little smarter, a little more resilient and ready for the next cycle.

This week also finds the faithful among the IAPP global community coming together for the 2025 Global Privacy Summit in Washington, D.C., for a few days of content and community. While I won't be attending this year's event, I imagine those who are will find comfort in reconnecting with familiar faces, old friends and colleagues during this important annual pilgrimage. That the event has continued to draw so many privacy, artificial intelligence governance and digital responsibility professionals to attend, despite the global climate of uncertainty, is a testament to its value to members and those who interact with these sectors.

To coincide with this week's event, the IAPP launched its annual Governance Survey for 2025. This valuable piece of work charts how the efficacy of, and corresponding confidence in, an organization's approach to privacy governance stems from the investment in the hallmarks of privacy as a professional discipline, the people, techniques and tools. The report seeks to explore these complexities, the impact on compliance and resulting organizational responses in greater detail. 

I would encourage you all across the APAC and ANZ regions to add your voice. The deeper and more robust contribution we all make, the more useful and actionable these survey trends become. This report is exactly the type of support the IAPP seeks to offer to help members educate and inform their teams and business leaders about the importance and value of privacy and governance frameworks to the outcomes of the business as a whole. If you've ever been asked "what is the return on investment of privacy," you'll find lots of support in this report.

Now, a call to action. The IAPP is a global community of passionate members with a common interest and purpose. However, this is only as strong as its weakest expressions. I have been thrilled by the level of engagement and effort shown by IAPP KnowledgeNet Chapter Chairs across my ANZ region in recent months and I know the members are appreciating all the great content and opportunities to meet others and network. By coming together and talking about all the issues and challenges we have in common we're a better and more informed collective. If you haven't had cause to join a session or contribute to this volunteer network in the past, I'd enthusiastically encourage you to reach out and make the most of these great resources. You won't be disappointed.

Adam Ford is the managing director, Australia, New Zealand, for the IAPP.