Press Release: EDPS opinion on transatlantic information sharing for law enforcement purposes: progress is welcomed, but additional work is needed

On 10 November, 2008, the European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) adopted an opinion on the Final Report by the EU-US High Level Contact Group on information sharing and privacy and personal data protection, which was presented by the Presidency of the European Union (EU) in June 2008. The Report defined common principles on privacy and data protection as a first step towards the exchange of information between the EU and the United States (US) to fight terrorism and serious transnational crime. It also identifies options for a possible instrument that would apply the agreed common principles to data transfers.

The EDPS welcomed the progress achieved by the EU and US authorities to ensure an effective regime for privacy and personal data protection in the exchange of law enforcement information. In the light of the complexity of the issue and the potential impact of a transatlantic instrument on data protection, he however emphasised the need for a careful analysis of the considered ways forward and recommends the development of a road map towards a possible agreement. Such a road map would involve all stakeholders at the different stages of the procedure and contain guidance for the continuation of the work, a timeline, as well as a further elaboration of the data protection principles on the basis of a common understanding on essential issues, such as the scope and nature of an agreement.

EurActiv, 6.10.09: Lawmaker: EU-US data deals 'will have to be re-opened' http://www.euractiv.com/en/justice/lawmaker-eu-us-data-deals-opened/article-186090

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