In this context, the right to disconnect has emerged. In Brazil, the 2017 Labor Reform regulated remote work but left gaps regarding this fundamental issue. Nevertheless, more and more Brazilian companies are implementing measures to ensure this right, such as restricting messages outside working hours, establishing clear response-time policies, and promoting awareness programs on the importance of rest. These practices contribute to a healthier organizational environment and help prevent conflicts between employers and employees—conflicts that, if not addressed, may ultimately end up in court.

Now, with the update to Regulatory Standard No. 1 (NR-1) and new rules taking effect in May 2025, this issue becomes even more relevant. Considered a key component of Brazil’s occupational safety and health legislation, NR-1 will require companies to incorporate mental health into their Occupational Risk Management Program (GRO), monitoring psychosocial risks that may affect employees. The growing number of work absences due to conditions such as anxiety, depression, and burnout underscores the importance of this measure.

Moreover, violating the right to disconnect can lead to labor lawsuits, with financial and reputational consequences for companies. Therefore, both employers and employees must recognize the importance of fostering healthy work environments that balance professional and personal life. Failing to respect these boundaries can result in significant costs for all involved.

We live in an era where privacy is no longer just a concern but has become a competitive advantage. Companies that embrace a data protection culture earn the trust of customers, who are increasingly aware and demanding.

Consumers today can recognize genuine practices and are skeptical of superficial initiatives—what we call “privacy washing.” Companies that truly integrate privacy into their processes have a unique opportunity to build strong and lasting relationships with their customers.

In Brazil, we are still at the beginning of a long journey. Despite the General Data Protection Law (LGPD), public awareness remains limited. Unlike other rights, such as consumer protection, data protection is still not widely known or exercised by Brazilians.

The National Data Protection Authority (ANPD) has recently intensified its actions, but the country still faces the challenge of educating both society and businesses about the rights established by the LGPD. It is essential for citizens to know that their data is protected and that they have the right to demand transparency and accountability in how their information is handled.

Data protection goes beyond privacy. While the right to privacy is restrictive—ensuring the “right to be left alone”—data protection is broader: it regulates how our data can be collected, stored, and used.

This means that when we share personal information, we have the right to demand that it be treated ethically, securely, and in line with our expectations. In the digital world, where misused data can cause irreversible harm, data protection is directly linked to defending dignity, freedom, and privacy.

Challenges for Businesses, Governments, and Society

Companies face the challenge of fostering a true privacy culture, which goes beyond mere legal compliance. This involves internal process changes and investments in security technologies.

Governments, on the other hand, must keep up with technological advancements and ensure that laws are effectively enforced to prevent a sense of impunity.

For citizens, the challenge is cultural. Many people are still unaware of the value of their data and the consequences of sharing it indiscriminately. Social media platforms, for example, are designed to capture attention and collect data, often without users realizing the full extent of it. Educating society is crucial so that everyone understands the risks and their rights.

The future of data protection is increasingly connected to the regulation of emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI). The European Union, through the AI Act, is already leading the discussion on the ethical and transparent use of AI.