Giovanni Buttarelli was a pivotal figure in the realm of data protection, serving as the European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) from 2014 until his untimely death in 2019. His contributions to privacy law and data protection have left an enduring impact on both European and global legal frameworks. This article explores his life, career, and the significant influence he had on data privacy.

Quick Info Table

Field	Details
Full Name	Giovanni Buttarelli
Popular As	European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS)
Occupations	Civil Servant, Judge, Professor
Date of Birth	24 June 1957
Birthplace	Frascati, Italy
Nationality	Italian
Date of Death	20 August 2019
Graduation Date	1984
Appointment as EDPS	4 December 2014
Appointment as Judge	1989
Appointment as Professor	2005

Early Life

Giovanni Buttarelli was born on June 24, 1957, in the picturesque town of Frascati, Italy. His early life laid the groundwork for a career dedicated to public service and legal excellence.

Formative Years in Frascati

Growing up in Frascati, a town celebrated for its rich history and culture, Buttarelli encountered a blend of traditional Italian values and progressive thinking. This environment nurtured his early interest in law and justice.

Education and Early Influences

Buttarelli pursued higher education at La Sapienza University in Rome, one of Italy's most prestigious universities. He graduated in 1984, deeply influenced by his professors and mentors, particularly Franco Cordero, a renowned Italian jurist.

Career Highlights

Giovanni Buttarelli's career is marked by significant milestones and contributions to data protection and privacy law. His roles and achievements reflect his commitment to safeguarding fundamental rights in the digital age.

Early Career and Judicial Appointments

Buttarelli began his career in the Italian judiciary, being appointed as a judge in 1989. His judicial work primarily focused on civil and administrative law, where he developed a keen understanding of legal frameworks and their implications for individual rights.

Role in the Italian Data Protection Authority

In 1997, Buttarelli was appointed as the Secretary General of the Italian Data Protection Authority (Garante per la protezione dei dati personali). In this role, he played a pivotal part in shaping Italy's data protection policies, including drafting Italian privacy law n. 675/96.

European Data Protection Supervisor

His appointment as the European Data Protection Supervisor in December 2014 marked a significant turning point in his career. As EDPS, Buttarelli led the charge for robust privacy laws and ethical data use across Europe.

Major Achievements

Buttarelli's contributions extend beyond his formal roles, encompassing various initiatives and frameworks that have left a lasting impact on data protection.

Italian Privacy Law n. 675/96

One of Buttarelli's notable achievements was his involvement in creating Italian privacy law n. 675/96. This law served as a cornerstone of Italy's data protection regime, paving the way for more comprehensive European regulations.

As EDPS, Buttarelli played a crucial role in implementing the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). His efforts ensured that the GDPR not only protected individual privacy but also facilitated a harmonized approach to data protection across the European Union.

Privacy 2030: A New Vision for Europe

In his posthumously published manifesto, "Privacy 2030: A New Vision for Europe," Buttarelli outlined a forward-thinking approach to data protection. This manifesto emphasized the need for ethical data practices and the safeguarding of fundamental rights amid rapid technological advancements.

Personal Life

Giovanni Buttarelli's personal life was characterized by a deep commitment to his family and his interests outside of his professional endeavors.

Family and Personal Interests

Buttarelli was known to be a family man, though specific details about his spouse and children remain private. He had a passion for literature and a keen interest in the intersection of technology and human rights.

Legacy and Tributes

Following his death on August 20, 2019, Buttarelli's legacy was honored by colleagues and institutions worldwide. His contributions to data protection continue to influence policies and inspire future generations of privacy advocates.

Conclusion

Giovanni Buttarelli's life and career were marked by a profound dedication to protecting individual privacy and data rights. His contributions continue to resonate in the field of data protection, ensuring that his legacy endures.

FAQ

Q: What was Giovanni Buttarelli's role in the GDPR?

A: As the European Data Protection Supervisor, Buttarelli played a crucial role in the implementation and advocacy of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Q: What is "Privacy 2030: A New Vision for Europe"?

A: "Privacy 2030: A New Vision for Europe" is a manifesto published posthumously that outlines Giovanni Buttarelli's vision for ethical data practices and the protection of fundamental rights in the digital age.

Q: How did Giovanni Buttarelli contribute to Italian data protection laws?

A: Buttarelli was instrumental in drafting Italian privacy law n. 675/96 and served as the Secretary General of the Italian Data Protection Authority, significantly shaping Italy's data protection policies.

Q: Where did Giovanni Buttarelli receive his education?

A: Buttarelli graduated from La Sapienza University in Rome in 1984, where he studied law and was influenced by notable jurists like Franco Cordero.

Q: What positions did Giovanni Buttarelli hold before becoming EDPS?

A: Before his tenure as EDPS, Buttarelli served as a judge and as the Secretary General of the Italian Data Protection Authority. He was also a professor specializing in data protection and fundamental rights.

Giovanni Buttarelli's life and work remain a testament to his unwavering commitment to privacy and data protection. His legacy continues to inspire and guide ongoing efforts to safeguard individual rights in an increasingly digital world.