The Belgian Data Protection Authority and its UK counterpart enter a cooperation agreement.

In an increasingly complex and global technological landscape, it is essential for data protection authorities to work together to ensure greater consistency and certainty for individuals and organizations processing personal data. Today, the Belgian Data Protection Authority (Belgian DPA) and its UK counterpart (ICO- Information Commissioner’s Office) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) establishing a framework for smooth and effective cooperation. The signing took place at the Privacy Symposium in Venice (Italy).

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for “Cooperation in the Regulation of Laws Protecting Personal Data” establishes a framework for cooperation in response to an increased need for cross-border cooperation, as both the Belgian DPA and ICO recognize the complexities of the international circulation and exchange of personal data. The document is a joint statement of intent providing both parties with a framework intended to foster productive and clear cooperation while adhering to their legal differences and statutory independence. It intends to streamline regulatory approaches when addressing similar issues, to promote consistency in the administration of similar data protection laws.

The intended international cooperation covers consultation on, and taking account of, each party’s regulatory activity to better protect individuals within the scope of applicable data protection and privacy laws, and supporting organizations in compliance with personal data protection laws. To achieve this, both authorities wish to strengthen existing relations by promoting the exchange of information, experience and best practice to assist one another in the regulation of data protection laws.

Aside from this, the agreement also sets out broad principles of collaboration by identifying the role and functions of each party as well as the scope of cooperation (One priority issue being parallel investigations or enforcement actions). Its collaboration may include, for example, initiatives such as the sharing of experiences and best practices, as well as the exchange of information (excluding personal data) about potential or ongoing investigations regarding potential contraventions impacting both jurisdictions. 

Since its inception, the Belgian Data Protection Authority has consistently emphasized the value of international cooperation. This understanding has only grown over time, evolving into a key pillar of the Belgian DPA’s 2026–2028 strategy. Establishing reliable partnerships with other data protection authorities is a key step in improving data protection in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Read the Memorandum of Understanding here.