EU justice chief says GDPR reforms push limits
The European Commission has proposed reforms to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) aimed at reducing administrative burdens for businesses while maintaining strong privacy protections for European citizens. Justice Commissioner Michael McGrath emphasized that the Commission has reached the limits of what can be done without compromising the high standards of data protection valued in the European Union. The reforms seek to balance the need for business-friendly regulations with the preservation of privacy rights.
One of the most notable proposed changes involves simplifying the way users consent to cookies, potentially reducing the number of intrusive cookie banners that currently affect internet users across Europe. The Commission also suggests easing data processing rules for artificial intelligence developers by allowing the use of personal data under “legitimate interest” without explicit consent. Additionally, the reforms propose the use of pseudonymization to protect personal data while enabling certain exemptions from strict GDPR requirements.
The Commission’s approach has sparked debate among lawmakers and privacy advocates. While some politicians support the reforms as a way to boost the EU’s digital competitiveness, others criticize them for potentially weakening privacy protections. McGrath rejected claims that the proposals represent a radical rollback, describing them as measured adjustments designed to improve the regulatory framework without undermining fundamental rights.
Since the GDPR came into effect in 2018, the EU has been cautious about making changes due to intense lobbying efforts during its initial drafting. The current reform plans are the first significant attempt to update the regulation, reflecting a shift in the digital landscape and the need to address emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. The outcome of ongoing negotiations in the European Parliament and the Council will determine the future balance between privacy and innovation in the EU.
