The Digital Governance Standards Institute (DGSI) announces the publication of the revised CAN/DGSI 109-1: Privacy – Part 1: Qualification and Proficiency of Access to Information, Privacy, and Data Protection Professionals. This National Standard of Canada defines the qualifications and core competencies required of privacy professionals and reflects Canada’s ongoing commitment to building trusted digital environments.
As the complexity of digital systems grows and with it the volume and sensitivity of data being handled, organizations are under increasing pressure to ensure their privacy teams are not only compliant but also highly competent. The revised edition of CAN/DGSI 109-1 offers a sharper, more practical roadmap to support that goal.
A Stronger Framework for Certification and Accountability
This updated edition introduces clearer guidance on the fields of knowledge to be tested during initial certification and provides structured expectations for reevaluation to maintain certification. These additions help ensure that professionals remain current in their knowledge and skills as legal, technological, and ethical considerations evolve.
Key updates in the revised standard include:
• Defined knowledge domains required for privacy certification exams
• Guidelines for reevaluation cycles to maintain professional standing
• Reinforced alignment with privacy law, data protection, and access to information legislation
• A modular framework adaptable to public, private, and hybrid sector organizations
Whether used to inform hiring criteria, develop internal training programs, or structure national certification schemes, CAN/DGSI 109-1 ensures a common foundation for measuring and maintaining professional excellence in privacy roles.
“Privacy is not just a legal obligation. It is a strategic competency,” said Darryl Kingston, Executive Director of DGSI. “This revised standard offers employers and professionals a concrete, standards-based foundation for building strong privacy teams that are prepared for today’s challenges and tomorrow’s risks.”
CAN/DGSI 109 1 is intended for:
• Privacy officers and advisors
• Access to information professionals
• Data protection officers
• HR and talent professionals building privacy teams
• Certification and training bodies
• Regulatory and compliance leaders
It supports consistency in how qualifications are assessed and ensures that privacy professionals across Canada are held to a recognized, credible benchmark.
Now Available
The revised edition of CAN/DGSI 109-1 is now available at www.dgc-cgn.org. Organizations are encouraged to review and adopt the updated guidance to ensure privacy professionals are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to manage risk, foster compliance, and build public trust.
Get involved
The DGSI’s development process is collaborative and open to all, and anyone interested in contributing to the development of digital governance standards is encouraged to get involved. For more information on how to participate, contact:
Darryl Kingston
Executive Director
Digital Governance Standards Institute
darryl.kingston@dgc-cgn.org
For further details or media inquiries, please contact:
Shyra Wells
Communications and Knowledge Mobilization Lead
Digital Governance Council
shyra.craig@dgc-cgn.org
About the Digital Governance Standards Institute
The Digital Governance Standards Institute develops digital technology governance standards fit for global use. The Institute works with experts, as well as national and global partners and the public to develop national standards that reduce risk to Canadians and Canadian organizations adopting and using innovative digital technologies in today’s digital economy. The Institute is an independent division of the Digital Governance Council. To learn more about the organization and its initiatives, visit www.dgc-cgn.org or contact info@dgc-cgn.org.