As the independent data protection authority of the European Union (EU), the European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) ensures compliance with the EU's own data protection regulations.
For this purpose, the EDPS monitors the EU institutions and organizations and ensures that the processing of personal data complies with the Data Protection Regulation. The EDPS works together with the Data Protection Officers appointed in each EU institution or body. It also issues opinions, guidelines or recommendations - as well as promoting compliance with data protection principles - to improve data protection practices.
The EDPS can impose sanctions, conduct investigations and bring cases before the European Court of Justice (ECJ) if necessary.
However, the European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) has also an advisory role on data protection issues. For example, he can advise the EU Commission on new laws or the development of technologies that may have an impact on data protection and privacy. It can also participate in legislative procedures and represent the data protection interests of potential data subjects in Europe.
To increase data protection, the EDPS cooperates with other data protection authorities at national, European and international level. The EDPS is represented in various networks and bodies that deal with data protection in the areas of security, research, health and digital innovation. The EDPS also coordinates the application of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the EU as a member of the European Data Protection Board.
The EDPS is elected by the European Parliament and appointed for a five-year term. The European Data Protection Supervisor is based in Brussels and the current European Data Protection Supervisor is Wojciech Wiewiórowski from Poland. He took office at the End of 2019 and is supported by a team of around 70 employees.
