Anonymisation is the most effective way to reconcile data protection with the use of data. Bitkom welcomes that the EDPB Guidelines 02/2026 confirm the contextual approach. To keep anonymisation usable in practice, we call for the assessment to focus on the means a recipient is reasonably likely to use, not every conceivable one. Technical, organisational and contractual safeguards must count, and no additional legal basis should be required for anonymisation itself. Practical examples and proportionate documentation will provide the legal certainty needed for research, industry and AI in Europe.
