On 4 November 2010 the European Commission adopted a strategic Communication on a comprehensive strategy on data protection in the European Union, highlighting its main ideas and key objectives on how to revise the current rules on data protection. Legislation will be put forward in 2011. The main policy objectives are reviewing the general EU legal framework on the protection of personal data. The Commission will assess the need to adapt the various instruments to the new common framework for data protection. This Communication intends to lay down the Commission`s approach for modernising the EUlegal system for the protection of personal data in all areas of the Union’s activities, takingaccount, in particular, of the challenges resulting from globalisation and new technologies, soas to continue to guarantee a high level of protection of individuals with regard to theprocessing of personal data in all areas of the Union`s activities.
The implementation and enforcement of data protection principles and rules is a key elementin guaranteeing respect for individuals` rights.Like technology, the way our personal data is used and shared in our society is changing allthe time. The challenge this poses to legislators is to establish a legislative framework thatwill stand the test of time. Despite the difficulty of the situation and the complexity of technology, claritymust exist on the applicable rules and standards that national authorities have to enforce andthat businesses and technology developers must comply with. Individuals should also haveclarity about the rights they enjoy.
At the end of the reform process, Europe`s data protection rulesshould continue to guarantee a high level of protection and provide legal certainty toindividuals, public administrations and businesses for severalgenerations.This will allow the EU toremain a driving force in promoting high data protection standards worldwide.
