The European Data Protection Board has published its Work Programme for 2026-2027, setting strategic priorities that include artificial intelligence governance, enhanced cross-border enforcement cooperation, and strengthening digital rights protections across the EU.
The European Data Protection Board (EDPB) has unveiled its Work Programme for 2026-2027, outlining a comprehensive strategy to address emerging challenges in data protection and privacy across the European Union. The two-year plan emphasizes three critical areas: artificial intelligence governance, cross-border enforcement mechanisms, and the reinforcement of digital rights for EU citizens.
The EDPB's strategic focus on artificial intelligence comes at a crucial time as the EU AI Act begins its implementation phase. The Board plans to develop detailed guidelines on AI systems that process personal data, addressing concerns about automated decision-making, profiling, and the use of biometric data. These guidelines will help organizations navigate the complex intersection between AI innovation and fundamental privacy rights.
Cross-border enforcement remains a cornerstone of the EDPB's mission. The Work Programme details enhanced cooperation mechanisms between national data protection authorities (DPAs) to tackle violations that span multiple jurisdictions. This includes streamlined procedures for handling complaints, coordinated investigations, and consistent application of fines and penalties across member states. The Board aims to reduce the current fragmentation in enforcement approaches that can create compliance challenges for multinational companies.
Digital rights protection receives renewed emphasis, with the EDPB committing to strengthen citizens' control over their personal data. This includes initiatives to improve transparency in data processing, enhance the effectiveness of data subject rights, and address emerging privacy concerns in areas such as the Internet of Things, smart cities, and digital health services.
The Work Programme also addresses the growing complexity of data transfers outside the European Economic Area. With ongoing challenges to international data transfer mechanisms following the Schrems II decision, the EDPB plans to provide updated guidance on compliance with adequacy decisions, standard contractual clauses, and binding corporate rules.
For businesses operating in the EU, the 2026-2027 Work Programme signals the need for proactive compliance strategies. Organizations should prepare for more coordinated enforcement actions, anticipate detailed guidance on AI systems, and expect increased scrutiny of their cross-border data flows. The EDPB emphasizes that its approach will balance innovation with fundamental rights protection, providing clarity for companies while maintaining strong privacy safeguards for individuals.
The full Work Programme document is available on the EDPB's official website, providing detailed timelines and specific deliverables for each strategic priority area.
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