EDRi warns against GDPR ‘simplification’ at EU Commission dialogue
European Digital Rights (EDRi) has cautioned against any weakening of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) during a recent dialogue with the European Commission, emphasizing its critical role within the EU's digital framework. The advocacy group, participating in the GDPR Implementation Dialogue on July 16, 2025, expressed firm opposition to efforts aimed at 'simplifying' the regulation, fearing such moves could undermine its effectiveness. This stance highlights ongoing debates about balancing data protection with the operational needs of businesses and the potential for regulatory changes. The EDRi's concerns stem from discussions within the European Commission regarding potential adjustments to the GDPR. Although an official summary was released, EDRi indicated the discussions revealed a more divided landscape than the official account suggested. Specific details of the proposed 'simplifications' were not mentioned in the content. The debate surrounding the GDPR's future directly affects businesses operating in Europe, requiring adherence to data protection standards. It also influences how the EU positions itself in relation to data privacy and digital rights, potentially impacting the bloc's digital sovereignty agenda. Any changes to the GDPR will need to be carefully considered.
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