The Administrative Council of the European Patent Organisation has approved a new data protection framework for the European Patent Office during its 167th meeting on 29 and 30 June 2021.

With the new data protection rules and introduction of the concept of data protection in the Office's Service Regulations, the EPO is aligning itself with the highest international standards and best practices, and with the EU data protection legislation. The same standards of personal data protection will apply to all activities carried out by the EPO and involving processing of personal data of any individual, thus reinforcing the Office's mission and values to treat any individual with respect and duty of care.

The Data Protection Rules (DPR) will also support the Office in its ongoing digitalisation and ensure that the organisation keeps pace with technological developments in a flexible but secure manner. 

The DPR will enter into force as of 1 January 2022. This implies an initial six-month transition period from the date of adoption by the Administrative Council until entry into force.