How to Include GDPR Clauses in Contracts Outside the EU

Question from Jean, How to Include GDPR Clauses in Contracts Outside the EU

Answer from AI:

When engaging with hosting service providers located outside the European Union, it’s crucial to ensure that your contracts comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). This regulation imposes strict rules on the processing of personal data of individuals within the EU, and its reach extends to companies outside the EU that process such data. Here’s a general guide on how to include GDPR clauses in your contracts, specifically tailored to the context of France.

Understanding GDPR Requirements

First, it’s important to understand what the GDPR requires for contracts involving data processing services. According to Article 28 of the GDPR, contracts between data controllers (in this case, your company) and data processors (the hosting service providers) must include specific terms to ensure compliance with the GDPR. These terms generally cover:

• The subject matter and duration of processing
• The nature and purpose of processing
• The type of personal data and categories of data subjects
• The obligations and rights of the controller

Steps to Include GDPR Clauses in Contracts

1. Identify the Data Protection Requirements: Clearly define the scope of personal data processing activities and the data protection measures that the hosting service provider must adhere to. This includes data security, data breach notifications, and data transfer mechanisms.
2. Use Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs): For transfers of personal data to countries outside the EU/EEA that are not deemed to have an adequate level of data protection, the European Commission has adopted SCCs that can be included in contracts. These clauses provide legal safeguards for the data being transferred. You can find the Standard Contractual Clauses on the European Commission’s website.
3. Include Specific GDPR Clauses: Apart from SCCs, your contract should explicitly state the GDPR obligations of the data processor. This includes using personal data only on documented instructions from the controller, ensuring the security of the data, and cooperating with supervisory authorities.
4. Address Data Transfer Mechanisms: If the hosting service provider is in a country outside the EU/EEA, ensure that the contract includes mechanisms for lawful data transfer under the GDPR. This may involve SCCs, Binding Corporate Rules (BCRs), or reliance on an adequacy decision.
5. Regular Auditing and Compliance: Include clauses that allow for regular audits and inspections to ensure the hosting service provider complies with GDPR requirements.

Consulting Legal Professionals

While this guide provides a general overview, GDPR compliance can be complex, and the specifics of your situation may require tailored legal advice. It’s strongly recommended to consult with a legal professional who specializes in data protection law to ensure that your contracts fully comply with the GDPR and other relevant regulations. A legal expert can help draft and review the necessary clauses, advise on the legality of data transfer mechanisms, and provide guidance on compliance with French data protection laws.

Additional Resources

For further information on GDPR compliance and data protection, you can refer to the following resources:

• The French Data Protection Authority (CNIL) provides guidance and resources on GDPR compliance for businesses operating in France.
• The European Commission’s Data Protection page offers detailed information on data protection laws, including the GDPR, and provides access to Standard Contractual Clauses.

Remember, including GDPR clauses in contracts with hosting service providers outside the European Union is not just about legal compliance; it’s also about protecting the privacy and rights of individuals whose data you are processing. Ensuring that your contracts reflect GDPR requirements is a critical step in achieving this goal.