Launch of the  European Data Protection Board to replace the Article 29 Working Party

As mentioned in Articles 63 to 76 and Recitals (135) to (140) of the #GDPR, the European Data Protection Board (EDPB) is an independent European body, which contributes to the consistent application of data protection rules throughout the European Union, and promotes cooperation between the EU's data protection authorities. 

EDPB replace the "Article 29 Working Party" (set under the Directive).

The EDPB is composed of representatives of the national data protection authorities and the European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS). The EDPB is established by the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), and is based in Brussels. The European Commission has the right to participate in the activities and meetings of the Board without voting right.  

The EDPB has a Secretariat, which is provided by the EDPS. A Memorandum of Understanding determines the terms of cooperation between the EDPB and the EDPS.

EDPB's Mission

EDPB aims to ensure the consistent application in the European Union of the General Data Protection Regulation and of the European Law Enforcement Directive.

EDPB can adopt general guidance to clarify the terms of European data protection laws, giving their stakeholders a consistent interpretation of their rights and obligations.

EDPB are also empowered by the GDPR to make binding decisions towards national supervisory authorities to ensure a consistent application.

EDPB act in accordance with our rules of procedure and EDPB guiding principles.

Tasks and duties

EDPB can:

• provide general guidance (including guidelines, recommendations and best practice) to clarify the law;
• advise the European Commission on any issue related to the protection of personal data and new proposed legislation in the European Union;
• adopt consistency findings in cross-border data protection cases; and
• promote cooperation and the effective exchange of information and best practice between national supervisory authorities.

EDPB will also produce an annual report on their activities, which will be made made public and sent to the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission.

Guiding principles

EDPB's guiding principles are:

• Independence and impartiality
• Good governance, integrity and good administrative behaviour
• Collegiality
• Cooperation
• Transparency
• Efficiency and modernisation
• Proactivity

To find out more, visit their website [LINK]