European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS)

The independent supervisory authority responsible for monitoring EU institutions', bodies', offices', and agencies' processing of personal data. The EDPS ensures that EU institutions respect individuals' privacy and data protection rights when processing personal data. Responsibilities include monitoring compliance by EU entities, advising on legislation and policies affecting privacy, cooperating with national data protection authorities, and handling complaints against EU institutions. The EDPS also participates in the European Data Protection Board as an observer. This role is distinct from national data protection authorities that supervise private and public entities within member states. The EDPS plays an important role in EU-level policy development, often issuing opinions on proposed legislation affecting privacy. Organizations dealing with EU institutions or tracking EU-level privacy developments should monitor EDPS guidance and positions.