EDPB and EDPS support streamlining AI Act implementation but call for stronger safeguards to protect fundamental rights

21 January 2026

The European Data Protection Board (EDPB) and the European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) have adopted a Joint Opinion on the European Commission’s Proposal for the ‘Digital Omnibus on AI’. The Proposal seeks to simplify the implementation of certain harmonised rules under the AI Act to ensure their effective application.

The EDPB and the EDPS support the objective of addressing practical challenges relating to the implementation of the AI Act. Administrative simplification must not, however, lower the protection of fundamental rights. The Joint Opinion acknowledges the complexity of the AI landscape and welcomes efforts to ease burdens for organisations. However, certain proposed changes could undermine the protection of individuals in the context of AI.

“Innovation and efficiency are crucial and can coexist with maintaining accountability of AI providers. We welcome EU-level regulatory sandboxes and simplified procedures to promote innovation and support SMEs in Europe. However, Data Protection Authorities must maintain a central role when it comes to the processing of individuals’ personal data. Cooperation between Data Protection Authorities, the AI Office and Market Surveillance Authorities is essential to ensure legal certainty for organisations and foster innovation while upholding individuals’ fundamental rights," said EDPB Chair, Anu Talus

“Simplification is welcome when it clarifies obligations, empowers individuals, and strengthens trust. A careful balance needs to be kept by reducing administrative burden where possible, without undermining the protection of fundamental rights. Furthermore, we must ensure that the role of the AI Office is clearly defined and does not affect the independent supervision of European Union Institutions’ own use of AI systems," said European Data Protection Supervisor, Wojciech Wiewiórowski

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