EU launches consultation on simplification in the digital field

The EU Commission’s new consultation seeks views on simplification measures for the AI Act and the ePrivacy Directive. While it has long been recognised that the ePrivacy Directive is outdated and attempts to adopt a regulation in this field have failed, the Commission recognises cookie consent fatigue, and the need to strengthen users’ digital rights online. Equally, the Commission aims to facilitate the use of cookies and other technologies for business.

A further objective is ensuring the predictable application of the AI Act as implementation challenges have already been identified in consultation with stakeholders. The Commission now seeks to provide legal predictability.

The consultation on the Digital Package on Simplification was launched on 16 September, and it remains open until 14 October 2025. The Commission has previously proposed certain simplifications to the GDPR’s provisions on Records of Processing Activities, but has not expanded on this proposal which is supported by the EU Data Protection Authorities (DPAs).

Michael McGrath, European Commissioner for Justice, addressed, in a keynote, the DPAs’ Global Privacy Assembly, currently convening in Korea. He briefly commented on the future of the GDPR saying that it remains fit for purpose. While some participants suggested minor changes to the law in an EU-run workshop, generally speaking stakeholders just want practical guidance on how to comply, he said.

See the consultation

The GPA continues tomorrow and Friday with the DPAs’ closed sessions.

More detailed reporting from the conference will appear at a future issue of PL&B International Report.