As the European Union’s independent data protection authority, the EDPS is responsible for supervising the processing of personal data by the European institutions, bodies, offices and agencies (EUIs), we do it by monitoring the correct application of the Regulation (EU) 2018/1725 (the so called EUDPR). To achieve this, the EDPS rely on the Data Protection Officers (DPOs) of the EUIs.

In fact, the Data Protection Officers of EUIs have proven essential in ensuring effective compliance with the EUDPR. Their responsibility involves informing data controllers of their obligations and data subjects of their rights, and advising on data protection related issues. The cooperation between the DPO and the EDPS is not limited to handling data subjects’ requests and complaints, but it is also key in promoting a strong data protection culture within EUIs.

Establishing the DPO network has created an important forum for discussions and exchanges among the various DPOs and the EDPS. Over the years, it has been instrumental for clarifying legal and technical aspects of data processing specific for EUIs. The network cooperates on an ongoing basis and usually meets twice a year.

This initiative aims to enhance the capability of EUIs’ DPOs and increase their effectiveness through a comprehensive set of actions, including interactive training, common action protocols, and dedicated support mechanisms.

  • Dynamic Support: the EDPS has recently appointed a dedicated DPO Contact Point to provide rapid and flexible channel exchange with the DPO network. With this support mechanism, we aim to help EUIs’ DPOs to increase their efficiency and problem-solving capacity.
  • DPO Knowledge Database: the EDPS will create a centralised repository of FAQs, case studies, guidelines, and whitepapers to support DPOs in finding the correct information when they need it. 
  • Interactive Training Modules: the EDPS will organise customised training sessions based on real-world challenges and cases. These trainings are designed to address specific issues and scenarios encountered in practical situations, enabling participants to develop relevant skills and competencies that can be immediately applied in their work.
  • Common Action Protocols: the EDPS will develop standard protocols for com-mon actions to be adopted by EUIs. This initiative aims to increase consistency, coordination, and effectiveness in the operations of EUIs’ DPOs.