US judicial redress for EU citizens: an important step in the right direction

On 25 June 2014, Eric Holder, US Attorney-General, announced that the Obama administration intends to introduce legislation to allow EU citizens the right to seek redress if their personal data – which had been transferred to US law-enforcement authorities – is wrongfully disclosed. This legislation would grant EU citizens the same right to judicial redress that US citizens have under the Privacy Act.

The American Chamber of Commerce to the European Union (AmCham EU) welcomes this important first step toward ensuring that EU and US citizens will be on an equal footing when it comes to redress for wrongful disclosure of their personal data. Ensuring that personal data is properly protected and allowing for appropriate judicial redress when it is wrongfully disclosed is a step in the right direction.

‘We hope that this announcement ensures greater dialogue on privacy issues’, said Pastora Valero, Chair of AmCham EU’s Digital Economy Committee. ‘The transfer of data for law enforcement purposes is a matter for discussion between Member States and the US authorities, and we hope that this debate leads to increased cooperation on issues impacting the digital economy’.

AmCham EU speaks for American business committed to Europe on trade investment and competitiveness issues. It aims to ensure a growth orientated business and investment climate in Europe. AmCham EU facilitates the resolution of transatlantic issues that impact business and play a role in creating better understanding of EU & US positions on business matters.

For more information, please contact: Anna McNally, Communications Director Email: anna.mcnally@amchameu.eu Direct: +32 (0)2 289 10 16