IAPP Global Legislative Predictions 2026
In this annual release, the IAPP gathers insights from around the globe, providing an on-the-ground look and predictions for the year ahead.
Contributors:
Jennifer Bryant
Associate Editor
IAPP
Editor's note: While we try to include as many countries as possible, we recognize this is not a comprehensive list. If you are interested in submitting predictions for a country not yet featured, please reach out to IAPP Associate Editor Jennifer Bryant at jbryant@iapp.org.
Additional Insights
- A look ahead at digital policy in 2026 (Podcast)
- Data Privacy Day: 2026 Predictions (Video)
In 2025, artificial intelligence governance rapidly expanded, the global wave of privacy reform continued, cybersecurity threats led to strengthened regulation, and enforcement activities and capacities continued to grow.
In 2026, AI regulation will continue to evolve as countries transition from drafting to implementing AI regulatory frameworks. While EU member states will focus on AI Act implementation, countries in Latin America are introducing or finalizing risk-based AI laws. Meanwhile, countries in the Asia-Pacific region are adopting approaches ranging from comprehensive statutes to innovation-preserving frameworks.
Countries like Japan and Canada will continue efforts to modernize older privacy laws while others like India and Taiwan will work to implement newly passed legislation. Across Europe, implementation of the NIS2 Directive will continue. Countries including Vietnam and South Korea are working toward new or expanded cybersecurity laws.
As privacy, cybersecurity and AI governance continue to converge, 2026 will undoubtedly be a pivotal year. For an on-the-ground perspective, professionals from 69 countries and jurisdictions share their insights on what lies ahead.
Contributors:
Jennifer Bryant
Associate Editor
IAPP