- A coalition of web3 companies called the Universal Privacy Alliance (UPA) recently formed to safeguard digital privacy rights through policy advocacy and privacy-centric technologies.
- The UPA consists of high-profile members like Nym Protocol Labs and the Filecoin Foundation, with an initial fund of $150,000 to influence privacy regulations.
- The Switzerland-based UPA aligns with the UN’s stance on digital privacy as a human right, seeking to guarantee private digital interactions without unwarranted surveillance through “privacy by design.”
The internet has connected the world in unprecedented ways. However, many dominant internet platforms prioritize surveillance and data collection over people’s basic right to privacy. As the digital landscape expands, the need for privacy-preserving technologies becomes more urgent.
A New Alliance Forms
To address the privacy crisis, a coalition of web3 companies have formed the Universal Privacy Alliance (UPA). The UPA aims to safeguard digital privacy rights through policy advocacy and by championing privacy-centric technologies.
Founding Members
The UPA consists of several high-profile entities, including Nym Protocol Labs, the Filecoin Foundation, Oasis, Aztec, and others. With an initial fund of $150,000, the alliance is committed to influencing digital privacy policy and regulatory decisions.
Goals and Plans
The UPA is based in Switzerland and aligns with the UN’s recognition of digital privacy as a fundamental human right. By embracing “privacy by design,” the UPA seeks to guarantee secure and private digital interactions without unwarranted surveillance.
Initial plans involve targeting the EU’s eIDAS and Digital Services Act over encryption concerns. The UPA also aims to appoint a coordinator, organize events, create a legal fund, and explore expanding membership.
United for Privacy
“With a united voice, we aim to educate policymakers, empower smaller organizations, and advocate for user-centric privacy practices in technology,” says UPA founding member Will Scott. The UPA signifies a joint commitment to championing privacy rights as the world becomes increasingly digitized.
