Which aspect of GDPR requires that data subjects must give clear consent for their data to be processed?

The concept that requires data subjects to give clear consent for their data to be processed is fundamentally rooted in the principle of consent. This aspect of GDPR emphasizes that individuals must be provided with clear and unambiguous information about how their personal data will be used and must actively agree to this use before their data can be processed. It ensures that individuals have control over their personal information and can make informed decisions regarding their data.

Consent under GDPR must be explicitly given, meaning that silence, pre-ticked boxes, or inactivity is not sufficient for consent to be considered valid. This principle is critical for building trust between organizations and the data subjects whose information they manage. By prioritizing consent, GDPR aims to protect individuals' privacy and empower them to manage their own data preferences.

The other principles associated with GDPR, such as accountability, transparency, and integrity, all play significant roles in the framework but do not specifically address the necessity for clear consent in the same direct manner as the principle of consent itself.