EDPB Launches 2025 Action on Right to Erasure
On March 5, 2025, the European Data Protection Board (EDPB) announced the launch of its Coordinated Enforcement Framework (CEF) action for the year. Following a coordinated effort in 2024 focused on the right of access, the EDPB will now concentrate on the right to erasure, also known as the “right to be forgotten” under Article 17 of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). This topic was chosen due to its frequent exercise among individuals and the numerous complaints received by Data Protection Authorities (DPAs).
In 2025, 32 DPAs across Europe will participate in this initiative. These authorities will reach out to various data controllers in different sectors, initiating either formal investigations or fact-finding exercises. If necessary, additional follow-up actions may be taken based on the findings of these inquiries. The primary objective is to assess how data controllers manage requests for erasure and how they apply the relevant conditions and exceptions.
Throughout the year, DPAs will maintain close communication to share insights and findings. The results from these national actions will be aggregated and analyzed collectively, providing a comprehensive understanding of the right to erasure. This collaborative approach aims to facilitate targeted follow-ups at both the national and EU levels, enhancing the overall enforcement of data protection rights.
The CEF is a significant component of the EDPB’s strategy for 2024-2027, designed to improve enforcement and cooperation among DPAs. Previous CEF actions have addressed topics such as the use of cloud-based services in the public sector, the role of Data Protection Officers, and the implementation of the right of access by data controllers.