International cooperation - IDPC and the ICO (UK), sign Memorandum of Understanding

During the annual BIIDPA meeting held in Malta between 21–23 June 2023, the Information and Data Protection Commissioner, Mr Ian Deguara, and the Deputy Commissioner of the UK’s Information Commissioner's Office, Mr Stephen Bonner, formalised a strategic cooperation agreement aimed at reinforcing regulatory collaboration between the two supervisory authorities.

The Memorandum of Understanding establishes a structured framework for the systematic exchange of best practices, regulatory intelligence, technical expertise, and operational insights. The agreement is designed to enhance supervisory effectiveness, promote regulatory consistency, and support the robust application and enforcement of data protection and privacy legislation within their respective jurisdictions.

Through this partnership, both authorities commit to maintaining open and proactive channels of communication, particularly in relation to policy developments, enforcement trends, cross-border matters, and emerging risks within the evolving digital landscape. The arrangement reflects a shared commitment to upholding high standards of data protection governance, strengthening institutional capacity, and fostering regulatory certainty for organisations operating across borders.

Malta and the United Kingdom recognise that sustained regulatory cooperation is essential to safeguarding the rights and freedoms of individuals, ensuring accountability in data processing activities, and promoting public trust in the digital economy.