The news story “Bahamas Firm Screens Personal Data” [front page, Oct. 16] gave a misleading impression about the regulation of data processors and users in the Bahamas. The Bahamas abides by the privacy protection principles set out by the 1981 Council of Europe Convention for the Protection of Individuals.
As one of the world’s leading international business centers, the Bahamas has sought to ensure that its regulatory infrastructure meets international best standards conducive to the needs and expectations of its citizens, industry and the global community. It therefore has sought to distinguish itself as a location in which individual privacy rights are afforded the greatest protection and are appropriately balanced against the need to promote the free flow of information around the world.
All companies that operate in the Bahamas do so in a regulatory environment that provides clear rules governing the responsible use of information. The Bahamas’ regulatory framework accords with the highest international standards and is modeled on the strict rules of the European Union. In fact, in some important ways, our privacy protections exceed those afforded in the United States.
JOSHUA SEARS
Ambassador
Embassy of the Bahamas
Washington
Printed in The Washington Post
Friday, November 12, 2004; Page A24
