EDPB’s Coordinated Enforcement Action: A Focus on Transparency and Information Requirements
On October 14, 2025, the European Data Protection Board (EDPB) made an impactful announcement regarding its fifth coordinated enforcement action. This initiative will hone in on compliance with the transparency and information requirements stipulated under the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). By centralizing its efforts on these core principles, the EDPB aims to bolster data protection standards across Europe.
Understanding the Coordinated Enforcement Framework (CEF)
The Coordinated Enforcement Framework (CEF) is a structured approach adopted by the EDPB to facilitate effective enforcement of data protection regulations across EU member states. Each year, the EDPB designates a specific topic for Data Protection Authorities (DPAs) to prioritize in their national enforcement initiatives. This framework enables cross-border cooperation and creates a uniform standard for compliance, which is essential given the varied legal landscapes across different countries.
DPAs voluntarily participate in these coordinated actions, contributing their resources and expertise. Once the individual national enforcement efforts are completed, the results are aggregated and analyzed by the EDPB. This aggregation not only provides insights into the effectiveness of the enforcement actions but also helps in identifying areas that may require further attention or follow-up actions at both the national and European levels.
Emphasizing Transparency and Information Requirements
The focus on transparency and information requirements comes at a crucial time when data subjects are increasingly aware of their rights under the GDPR. Transparency is one of the essential pillars of data protection; it ensures that individuals understand how their personal data is being collected, processed, and used. In this coordinated action, DPAs will scrutinize how organizations inform their customers about data processing activities, ensuring that privacy notices are clear, accessible, and comprehensive.
The EDPB’s decision to focus on this aspect signifies its commitment to empowering individuals and fostering trust in the digital ecosystem. Organizations failing to meet these requirements not only risk regulatory penalties but may also face reputational damage and loss of customer confidence.
Past Coordinated Actions
Since the inception of the CEF in October 2020, the EDPB has initiated several coordinated actions focusing on various themes relevant to data protection. Some of the notable topics addressed include:
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Use of Cloud-Based Services by the Public Sector: This action examined how public sector organizations are engaging with cloud services, emphasizing the importance of data security and compliance in a cloud environment.
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Designation and Position of Data Protection Officers: The role of Data Protection Officers (DPOs) is crucial in ensuring compliance with data protection laws. The EDPB’s analysis provided insights into how different organizations are preparing for this responsibility.
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Implementation of the Right of Access by Data Controllers: This action focused on the transparency of data controllers in allowing individuals to access their personal data, a fundamental right under the GDPR.
- Right to Erasure: This ongoing action is centered around the enforcement of the right to be forgotten, exploring how organizations handle requests to delete personal data.
What’s Next: The 2026 Coordinated Action
Looking forward, the EDPB is gearing up for its sixth coordinated enforcement action set to launch in 2026. In the coming months, participating DPAs will begin their work, continuing the trail of robust enforcement efforts tailored to address pressing data protection challenges. The anticipation surrounding this upcoming action signals a proactive approach to potential compliance issues within the realm of transparency and information-sharing practices.
Staying Informed
For those interested in the nuances of data protection and privacy regulations in the EU, keeping an eye on the EDPB’s updates is critical. The EDPB regularly publishes press releases and reports that delve into findings, trends, and insights generated from these coordinated actions. To stay updated, you can read the official press release about the Coordinated Enforcement Framework and the 2026 action here.
With the EDPB’s relentless focus on adherence to the GDPR, it becomes evident that transparency and information sharing are paramount as we navigate the complexities of the digital age. Each coordinated effort underscores the importance of empowering citizens and upholding their rights in a landscape that continually evolves.