Comment on proposed extensive data processing powers for Europol

In December 2020, the European Commission issued a Proposal to amend the Europol Regulation regarding Europol’s cooperation with private parties, the processing of personal data by Europol in support of criminal investigations and Europol’s role on research and innovation. This amendment considerably expands the data processing powers of Europol without establishing an independent oversight over Europol’s data processing power. This could possibly have adverse effects on the fundamental rights of affected persons, both suspects and innocent people.