|
One of the EDPS' main tasks is to supervise personal data processing by the
European institutions and bodies
. This supervision work takes various forms.
The bulk of it is based on notifications of processing operations presenting specific risks. These need to be
prior checked
by the EDPS. Based on the facts submitted to him, the EDPS will examine the processing of personal data in relation to the Data Protection Regulation (
Regulation (EC) No 45/2001
). In most cases, this exercise leads to a set of recommendations that the institution or body need to implement so as to ensure compliance with data protection rules.
The EDPS receives
complaints
from EU staff members as well as from other people who feel that their personal data have been mishandled by a European institution or body. If a complaint is admissible, the EDPS usually carries out an inquiry. The findings are communicated to the complainant, and necessary measures are adopted.
The EDPS may adopt opinions on
administrative measures
related to data protection adopted by European institutions and bodies.
The EDPS may carry out
inquiries
on his own initiative. Inquiries and inspections are essential for a supervisory authority to have the means for fact-finding, following up of cases and monitoring of compliance in general.
In order to monitor compliance with Regulation (EC) No 45/2001, the EDPS largely relies on the
Data Protection Officers
(DPOs) who are to be appointed in each institution/body. Apart from bilateral meetings and contacts with the DPOs, the EDPS also takes part in the regular meetings of the DPO network.
Since January 2004, the EDPS has ensured the supervision of the central unit of
Eurodac. An essential aspect of this supervision is the cooperation with national supervisory authorities and the drawing up recommendations for common solutions to existing problems.
The EDPS publishes
thematic guidelines on critical issues to serve as reference documents for the European administration.
In December 2010 the EDPS adopted a policy paper entitled: "Monitoring and Ensuring Compliance with Regulation (EC) 45/2001".
| 
