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EDPS again concerns about the data retention directive - 31 May 2011

On May 31st 2011, the European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) adopted an opinion on the European Commission’s Evaluation Report on the Data Retention Directive. This much discussed Directive requires all providers of electronic communication services to store traffic and location data of the communications of all citizens, for possible use by the Member States for law enforcement purposes. The Commission Report provides an evaluation of the implementation and application of the Directive and measures its impact on economic operators and consumers.

On various occasions, the EDPS has said that the availability of traffic and location data can play an important role in criminal investigations. However, he has also repeatedly expressed serious doubts about the necessity for retaining data on such a large scale in light of the rights to privacy and data protection. In this perspective, the EDPS has underlined the crucial importance of the evaluation process and called for a clear demonstration that such a measure is necessary and proportionate.

Download the opinion of EDPS, as well as the press release related to that opinion in English, French or German.

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