EU Parliament, member states agree on data governance law

European Parliament negotiators and European Union (EU) member states have agreed on a joint position on a so-called European Data Governance Act (DGA), both sides confirmed in Brussels.

The law was proposed by the European Commission in 2020.

The aim of the act is to advance innovation in artificial intelligence, medicine, and mobility through the increased use of data.

In health, for example, data can contribute to better care, enable personalized treatments and help with finding cures for rare or chronic illnesses.

The law also aims to ensure citizens retain control over their data.

That should also apply to those who voluntarily provide their data.

The EU Commission’s Vice President, Margrethe Vestager said it is about setting up the right conditions for trustful data sharing in line with our European values and fundamental rights.

“We are creating a safe environment in which data can be shared across sectors and member states for the benefit of society and the economy.

“The political agreement on the law must now be confirmed by the council of member states and the plenary session of the European Parliament but these steps are considered formalities,” Vestager said.

(dpa/NAN)