Skip to content

EU Court Upholds U.S. Data Privacy Framework Adequacy

The EU court upholds U.S. data privacy protections. Despite concerns, this ruling ensures transatlantic data flows continue.

On the right there are clip, passport size photo and cloth. On the left and in the background it is...
On the right there are clip, passport size photo and cloth. On the left and in the background it is blurred.

EU Court Upholds U.S. Data Privacy Framework Adequacy

The European Union's General Court has ruled that the United States adequately protects the personal data of Europeans under the EU-U.S. Data Privacy Framework (DPF). This decision comes after a challenge to the DPF's adequacy was brought before the court.

The court rejected the challenge, noting that the European Commission monitors the DPF and the U.S. Data Protection Review Court (DPRC) provides adequate oversight for U.S. intelligence agencies. However, this ruling leaves room for an appeal to be filed with the European Court of Justice.

The court's decision was met with mixed reactions. Greg Nojeim of the Center for Democracy and Technology questioned the court's assertion of adequate protections for the independence of DPRC judges. He raised concerns about the DPF's oversight and protection of Europeans' data, given signs of executive branch influence on the DPRC, PCLOB, and Federal Trade Commission. Digital freedoms advocates also expressed disappointment, citing the lack of a quorum in the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board (PCLOB).

Caitlin Fennessy of the IAPP welcomed the ruling, stating it boosts confidence in the DPF and is significant as the first such ruling by an EU high court.

The ruling by the European Union's General Court upholds the adequacy of the United States' data protection measures under the DPF. Despite concerns raised by privacy advocates, the court's decision stands, pending any potential appeals. This ruling is seen as a significant step in maintaining transatlantic data flows.

Read also:

Latest