Legal and Ethical Implications of Data Processing in Sex-Positive Techno Parties: the case of ZusammenKommen

Abstract

This paper describes how the organizers of large sex-positive parties make use of digital systems to provide a safe and governed space for their libertine guests. It describes the legal and ethical implications of processing (including storing) person-identifying and sensible type of data about the sexuality of individuals who apply for entry into such parties. Based on the case of the so-called ZusammenKommen party series in Vienna, it describes the technical and organizational safeguards used to assure the protection of data and privacy of the guests. It further discusses which other methods could be developed and deployed to increase even further the privacy of its guests.