The Federal Commissioner for Data Protection and Freedom of Information (BfDI) organized an expert workshop to anticipate regulatory challenges related to neurotechnologies.

On July 8, 2026, the Federal Commissioner brought together about thirty experts from universities, research institutes, and the Federal Ministry of Health to assess the regulatory needs of neurotechnologies. The main issue identified is that these technologies can not only measure brain data but also influence mental processes. Although the GDPR is considered a solid foundation, the debate focuses on the need to classify neurodata as a special category of sensitive data. It was concluded that comprehensive risk assessments are necessary to establish risk categories, thereby distinguishing desirable uses, such as medical applications, from those that are not. This approach is part of a strategic foresight process initiated by the BfDI in 2024 to proactively address future data protection challenges.