IAPP

The International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP) is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to privacy and data protection. It serves privacy professionals around the world and provides education, certification, research, and policy resources to advance privacy practices. Its work spans governance, risk management, compliance, incident response, and individual data rights.

Established to advance privacy through professional standards and knowledge sharing, the IAPP offers training and certification programs. The flagship credential is the Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP), available in regional tracks such as CIPP/US, CIPP/E, CIPP/C, and CIPP/A, along with credential tracks CIPM (Certified Information Privacy Manager) and CIPT (Certified Information Privacy Technologist). The association administers exams, certification maintenance, and continuing education. It also hosts major events, including the Global Privacy Summit, regional conferences, webinars, and local chapter activities.

The IAPP provides a broad library of guidance, research, and policy resources on privacy laws and best practices. Resources often include model documents, practice materials, and updates on enforcement trends, as well as surveys and benchmarking reports. The organization collaborates with regulators and industry groups to inform policy and professional standards.

Governance is conducted by a board of directors and volunteer committees, with membership spanning public and private sectors, academia, and non-governmental organizations. Members gain access to resources, professional networks, training discounts, and formal recognition through IAPP credentials, which are widely regarded in the privacy profession and used by employers in hiring and staffing decisions.