Workshop on Practical Insights into Spyware Law at the Representation of Saarland to the EU in Brussels

On July 4, 2025, the Representation of Saarland to the EU hosted a comprehensive workshop entitled “Practical insights into the work of practitioners at the example of spyware.” The event brought together prominent legal professionals and scholars to explore the multifaceted legal challenges posed by spyware technology and its impact on privacy and fundamental rights.

The workshop commenced with an introductory speech by Luigi Malferrari from the European Commission’s Legal Service, followed by a welcome address by Christoph Roth, Head of the Representation of Saarland to the EU. Keynote speaker Simona Constantin, responsible for democracy and rule of law within the European Commission, presented on the intersection of spyware regulation and democratic safeguards.

Further contributions came from Dr. Gero Ziegenhorn and Dr. Christoph Partsch, highlighting litigation and compliance issues. Attendees participated in subgroup exercises designed to simulate practical legal scenarios. The day concluded with presentations of subgroup findings, stimulating a rich discussion on current and future challenges in the digital legal landscape.

 The interactive format enabled participants to exchange knowledge and develop solutions on issues like GDPR compliance, democratic safeguards, and digital rights. The workshops were held by Antonios Bouchagiar, Simona Constantin, Julien Gregory Debussche, Bruno Gencarelli, Dr. Luigi Malferrari, Hendrik Mildebrath, Dr. Christoph Partsch, Lori Roussey, Georgia Voudoulaki, and Dr. Gero Ziegenhorn.

This event was organised by the Europa-Institut in collaboration with key European institutions, underscoring the commitment to fostering dialogue between academia, practitioners, and policymakers on emerging technology law issues.

A huge thank you to Saarland Vertretung for hosting this event! And to Luigi Malferrari for organizing it together with our alumni association EVER e.V. A big thank you also goes out to REDEKER SELLNER DAHS and Partsch & Partner Rechtsanwälte who supported the workshop financially.