In Brief: The European Commission has initiated an infringement procedure against Spain, citing concerns about the country’s practices for collecting tourist data, which may infringe on privacy rights.
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European Commission Launches Infringement Procedure Against Spain on Traveller Data Collection – Image Credit HOTREC
HOTREC supports the European Commission’s decision to open an infringement procedure against Spain concerning Royal Decree 933/2021 and its compatibility with the EU Law Enforcement Directive.
The Commission’s concerns relate to Spain’s traveller data collection requirements, including the excessive categories of personal data collected, broad access granted to law enforcement authorities, and the three-year data retention period.
Together with European tourism and travel partners, HOTREC has repeatedly raised concerns about the proportionality, legality and practical implementation of Royal Decree 933/2021, including the administrative burden placed on accommodation providers and other tourism businesses.
HOTREC fully recognizes the importance of measures to combat terrorism and organized crime. However, such measures must respect the EU principles of necessity, proportionality and legal certainty.
HOTREC remains committed to engaging constructively with the European Commission, Spanish authorities and sector partners to achieve a practical, proportionate and legally sound solution.