IELTS Speaking Part 2: Describe a law that was introduced in your country

I’d like to talk about the Data Protection Act of 2018, which incorporates the General Data Protection Regulation, or GDPR, into UK law.

This law was introduced by the UK government in 2018, following the European Union’s efforts to strengthen rules regarding the collection and use of personal data. It came at a time when people were becoming increasingly concerned about their privacy, especially with the rise of social media platforms, online shopping, and large corporations collecting huge amounts of personal information.

The main purpose of this law was to give individuals more control over their personal data. For example, companies are now required to ask for clear consent before using someone’s information, and people have the right to know exactly how their data is being used, stored, or shared. Businesses also face strict penalties if they fail to protect sensitive information, which really encourages them to handle data responsibly and securely.

I personally think this law was an excellent idea because it helps protect people in the digital age. Nowadays, almost every activity leaves a digital footprint—whether it’s browsing a website, making an online payment, or simply using an app. Without proper safeguards, this data could easily be misused, leading to problems such as identity theft or intrusive advertising. Thanks to the GDPR, individuals like me feel more reassured that our privacy is being respected and that we have the right to demand transparency.

Overall, I believe the introduction of the Data Protection Act has been a significant step forward in protecting citizens’ rights in the modern world, and it shows that governments are adapting to the challenges of the digital era.