In the case of comments posted by parents, GDPR does not apply, as the teachers’ data is being shared by private individuals for personal purposes (expressing opinions about the institution).

A teacher who does not want their personal data to be disclosed online may attempt to invoke an unlawful violation of their personal rights—specifically the right to privacy—under Article 23 of the Civil Code. In this context, it would concern information about their employment. The teacher would need to contact the person who published the data and request its removal, warning that legal action may follow. Such a request could also be directed to the group administrator. However, it should be noted that when it comes to information about employment alone, the court may question whether this constitutes an unlawful infringement of personal rights—especially if the teacher’s employment is publicly available (e.g. on the institution’s website).

If negative or offensive comments about specific teachers are posted in the group, the teachers could again seek their removal on the grounds of infringement of personal rights—this time regarding their good name. Furthermore, if the negative opinions accuse a teacher of behavior that could demean them publicly or damage the trust required to perform their profession, such comments may qualify as defamation under Article 212 of the Penal Code. In such cases, the teacher would have to pursue their rights directly against the authors of the statements.