Civil Liberties

Principles

Civil liberties are fundamental rights and freedoms protected by the Constitution of the United States.
Protect the privacy and civil liberties of DoD employees, members of the Military Services, and the public to the greatest extent possible, consistent with its operational requirements.
Consider appropriately privacy and civil liberties in the review, development, and implementation of new or existing laws, regulations, policies, and initiatives.
Not maintain information on how an individual exercises rights protected by the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States, including the freedoms of speech, assembly, press, and religion, except when:
- Specifically authorized by statute;
- Expressly authorized by the individual, group of individuals, or association on whom the record is maintained; or
- The record is pertinent to and within the scope of an authorized law enforcement, intelligence collection, or counterintelligence activity.

Mission and Functions

The mission of the Defense Privacy and Civil Liberties Division (DPCLD) is to implement the Department of Defense's Privacy and Civil Liberties programs through advice, monitoring, official reporting, and training. The DPCLD is responsible for the implementation of the Department of Defense Civil Liberties Program.