Beyond Privacy: A Rights-Based Framework for Religious Data Protection in Public Governance

Abstract

This research paper examines the critical challenges and complexities surrounding the protection of religious data within public administration systems in an era of increasing digitalization and data-driven governance. The study analyzes the intersection of information privacy, human rights, and administrative law, building upon foundational privacy theories established by Warren and Brandeis (1890) and contemporary legal frameworks such as the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Through a comprehensive review of legal provisions, ethical considerations, and global case studies, the paper identifies significant challenges in balancing technological advancement with the protection of sensitive religious information. The research reveals that religious data protection presents unique vulnerabilities related to discrimination, cultural sensitivity, and the potential misuse of algorithmic decision-making systems. Key findings emphasize the need for comprehensive privacy legislation, ethical guidelines for data processing, inclusive stakeholder engagement, and privacy-by-design approaches in administrative systems. The study concludes that protecting religious data requires not only legal compliance but also a rights-based approach that respects religious diversity and cultural sensitivity. The paper provides policy recommendations including continuous training programs, privacy impact assessments, international cooperation on data standards, and robust redress mechanisms to ensure accountability and transparency in religious data management within public administration contexts.

Keywords: Religious data protection, public administration, information privacy, GDPR, human rights, data governance