#BGBl. 2026 I Nr. 39Law on the Exchange of Information between Law Enforcement Authorities of the Member States of the European Union

This German federal law, enacted on February 10, 2026, and published in the Federal Law Gazette (BGBl. I Nr. 39) on February 13, 2026, regulates the exchange of information among law enforcement authorities across EU member states. It establishes standardized procedures, technical standards, and legal frameworks to facilitate rapid and secure sharing of criminal intelligence, evidence, and operational data to combat cross-border crime such as terrorism, organized crime, cybercrime, and human trafficking. The law aligns with EU directives like the European Investigation Order and Prüm II framework, mandating German authorities like the Federal Police (Bundespolizei) and Federal Criminal Police Office (Bundeskriminalamt) to integrate into EU-wide databases such as SIS II, ECRIS, and the upcoming Entry/Exit System. Key provisions include mandatory response times for information requests (typically 24-72 hours depending on urgency), data protection safeguards compliant with GDPR and the EU Law Enforcement Directive, and interoperability requirements for national systems. It introduces automated exchange mechanisms for DNA, fingerprints, and vehicle registration data, with German authorities required to implement by December 31, 2027. Penalties for non-compliance by officials range from fines up to €50,000 to disciplinary actions. The law also covers training obligations and annual reporting to the Bundestag on exchange volumes and effectiveness. Supervised by the Federal Ministry of the Interior, the legislation expands on prior national implementations of EU instruments, aiming to enhance operational cooperation while ensuring proportionality and judicial oversight for sensitive data transfers.

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