EDPB Submits Input for Law Enforcement Directive Evaluation
The European Data Protection Board (EDPB) has provided its input to the European Commission ahead of the mandatory evaluation of the Law Enforcement Directive (LED), which must be reported to the European Parliament and the Council by May 6, 2026. This contribution is based on feedback from national data protection authorities (DPAs) regarding the application of the directive from January 2022 to August 2025. The EDPB emphasizes the LED’s key role in protecting personal data within law enforcement activities.
The report highlights that DPAs have increased their efforts in advising authorities on preventing and addressing data breaches. They have also enhanced guidance and awareness initiatives. However, DPAs seek clearer legal definitions, especially concerning the interface between the LED and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). They also call for stronger measures to address challenges arising from new technologies, including artificial intelligence, ensuring these tools comply strictly with the LED’s principles of necessity, proportionality, and safeguards.
The EDPB stresses the importance of improving national implementation of the LED, particularly in light of recent court decisions. Strengthening the role of Data Protection Officers in law enforcement and enhancing cooperation between DPAs and law enforcement agencies are also key priorities. The Board warns that both DPAs and the EDPB need additional financial and human resources to manage new responsibilities, such as coordinated supervision of large-scale EU IT systems like the Visa Information System, Prüm II, and the Entry/Exit System.
