Introduction to EU Data Protection Law

This chapter covers conceptual elements connected with the data protection framework and briefly looks at the history and avenues of such framework in the EU. To begin with, it discuss the element of trust, which is foundational to data protection and privacy. Subsequently the chapter reflects upon concepts such as: Data Controller, Personal Data, Legal basis of processing (including Legitimate Interest, Consent and Necessity for the performance of contract) and Proportionality in the data processing. In doing so, the chapter will refer to different judgements of the European Court of Justice (ECJ) or the CJEU.