The Data Governance Act officially became applicable on 24 September 2023 and is considered pivotal in the European data strategy. Its primary objective is to create a secure environment for data exchange among different sectors and EU member states, ultimately benefiting society and the economy. Notably, the Act introduces the concept of data altruism, enabling entities to voluntarily register as data altruism organizations, simplifying the process of donating data while ensuring trust and minimizing administrative burdens.

Furthermore, the Act aims to improve the utilization of public sector data that cannot be made openly accessible. This facilitates the flow of data and bolsters the development of shared European data spaces, encompassing manufacturing, cultural heritage, agriculture, and healthcare sectors. An additional noteworthy aspect is the establishment of the European Data Innovation Board, which is tasked with providing guidance on the advancement of European data spaces and defining standards for cross-sector data sharing.

Why does it matter?

European leaders perceive the Data Governance Act as a cornerstone in the construction of a fair and innovative data-driven economy that aligns with European values and nurtures a dependable digital single market. This legislation complements the Data Act, endorsed in 2022, which outlines the conditions for deriving value from data. Collectively, these initiatives represent significant strides toward a harmonized European data landscape.