The European Data Protection Board has introduced a standardised template for Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs), aiming to improve consistency and simplify GDPR compliance across Europe.

The initiative follows the board's broader effort to harmonise regulatory practices and make data protection requirements easier for organisations to apply.

A DPIA is required when data processing is likely to pose a high risk to individuals' rights and freedoms. It involves describing how personal data is handled, assessing necessity and proportionality, and identifying measures to reduce risk.

The new template is designed to guide organisations step by step, offering structured fields that improve clarity and reduce the risk of incomplete or inconsistent assessments.

While use of the template is not mandatory, organisations are encouraged to adopt it as a practical tool to streamline reporting and ensure completeness. An accompanying document simplifies key concepts and addresses common uncertainties, making implementation more accessible across sectors.

The template will remain open for public consultation until 9 June, after which national data protection authorities are expected to integrate it into their frameworks. Stakeholders are invited to provide feedback during this period as part of ongoing efforts to align data protection practices across the EU.