Changes from report parliamentary committee draft to plenary report

The conclusion of the agreement between the European Union and Iceland on the transfer of Passenger Name Record (PNR) data to prevent, detect, investigate and prosecute terrorist offences and serious crime represents an important step in strengthening international cooperation in the fight against terrorism and serious transnational crime.

The PNR agreement with Iceland will enable the transfer of passenger data collected by airlines to national authorities for security purposes. It is important, because this information can provide the authorities with important elements allowing them to detect suspicious travel patterns and identify associates of criminals and terrorists, in particular those previously unknown to law enforcement. This will not only detect terrorism and other forms of serious crime, such as drug-related offences, human trafficking and child sexual exploitation, but also help prevent such crimes from being committed. The processing of PNR data has proven to be an effective tool in strengthening the security of the Schengen area by contributing to the detection of crime at the external borders and enabling Member States to apply a risk-based, data-driven approach within the Schengen area.

It is worth underlining, that the agreement reflects a careful balance between security needs and the protection of individual privacy. It establishes clear rules governing the processing, storage, use, and retention of PNR data. Strict safeguards are included to ensure that data is used solely for specified purposes, retained only for limited periods, and protected against misuse or unauthorized access. Oversight mechanisms and rights of redress for individuals further reinforce transparency and accountability. This has been confirmed by the European Data Protection Supervisor, who issued a positive opinion concluding that the agreement contains the necessary safeguards required in order for it to be compatible with the EU legal framework on data protection.

In conclusion, the PNR agreement with Iceland demonstrates a shared recognition that modern security challenges require coordinated, cross-border solutions. By combining enhanced information-sharing with robust data protection guarantees, the agreement contributes to safer international travel while upholding the rule of law and fundamental rights.

Enhancing international cooperation in law enforcement, particularly through effective and timely information sharing, is crucial in responding to the complex and evolving threats posed by terrorism and serious transnational crime and, in turn, improving the safety and security of our citizens. That is why it is important for the European Parliament to give its consent for the Council to conclude this agreement.