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European Federation of Associations of Market Research Organisations

EFAMRO

EFAMRO, the European Research Federation, the voice of the European market research sector.

Lobbying Activity

Response to Report on the application of the General Data Protection Regulation

21 Apr 2020

Market, social and opinion research plays a key role in helping businesses and other constituencies better understand consumers, customers and citizens in developing goods and services and is essential for economic efficiency, innovation and progress. Social and opinion research is widely used by public bodies to understand citizens’ preferences and measure key performance indicators, for example the Eurobarometer surveys carried out by the European Commission, and government studies used for improving educational, healthcare and police services. Research in itself does not seek to change or influence opinions or behaviour. Unlike direct marketing, advertising or other commercial communications, it does not seek to promote the aims or ideals of those who conduct or commission it. While research is used by marketers to test their products or messages, it is not a commercial communication. EFAMRO, EphMRA and BHBIA are pleased to contribute to the European Commission’s (Commission) 2020 evaluation and review of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). This position paper is based on the feedback of our members on their experience with the application and implementation of the GDPR. EFAMRO, EphMRA and BHBIA members have a long-standing tradition in promoting, developing, supporting and regulating standards and innovation in the realm of privacy and data protection via the associations’ Codes of Conduct and accompanying guidelines which underpin membership of the EFAMRO member associations.
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