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RGPD

Article 50

International cooperation for the protection of personal data

In relation to third countries and international organisations, the Commission and supervisory authorities shall take appropriate steps to:

(a)

develop international cooperation mechanisms to facilitate the effective enforcement of legislation for the protection of personal data;

(b)

provide international mutual assistance in the enforcement of legislation for the protection of personal data, including through notification, complaint referral, investigative assistance and information exchange, subject to appropriate safeguards for the protection of personal data and other fundamental rights and freedoms;

(c)

engage relevant stakeholders in discussion and activities aimed at furthering international cooperation in the enforcement of legislation for the protection of personal data;

(d)

promote the exchange and documentation of personal data protection legislation and practice, including on jurisdictional conflicts with third countries.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Who does Article 50 apply to, and who has to carry out this international cooperation?
Article 50 is addressed to the Commission and the supervisory authorities, not to businesses. It requires them to take appropriate steps in relation to third countries and international organisations, so the obligations sit with the public bodies that enforce legislation for the protection of personal data. There is nothing a company has to implement directly under this article.
What steps does Article 50 actually require?

The Commission and supervisory authorities must take appropriate steps to:

  • develop international cooperation mechanisms to facilitate the effective enforcement of legislation for the protection of personal data;
  • provide international mutual assistance in enforcement, including through notification, complaint referral, investigative assistance and information exchange;
  • engage relevant stakeholders in discussion and activities aimed at furthering international cooperation in enforcement;
  • promote the exchange and documentation of personal data protection legislation and practice, including on jurisdictional conflicts with third countries.
Are there safeguards when authorities assist each other or exchange information internationally?
Yes. Point (b) makes international mutual assistance, such as notification, complaint referral, investigative assistance and information exchange, subject to appropriate safeguards for the protection of personal data and other fundamental rights and freedoms. Cooperation with third countries therefore does not override the protections the legislation is there to enforce.
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