FDPIC

FDPIC stands for the Federal Data Protection and Information Commissioner, the independent Swiss federal authority responsible for protecting privacy and handling access to information. The office oversees the application of federal data protection and transparency laws, addresses complaints about processing of personal data by federal authorities, and provides guidance to public bodies and the public on privacy matters.

The FDPIC operates under the framework of federal law, including the Federal Act on Data Protection (FADP) and the Federal Act on the Transparency of Governmental Activities. It coordinates with cantonal data protection authorities to promote consistent practices across Switzerland and to support nationwide privacy standards. The office has the authority to investigate federal authorities’ data processing, issue rulings and recommendations, and publish guidance to help organizations comply with the law.

Key responsibilities include receiving and examining complaints, conducting investigations or audits of federal institutions, issuing rulings or opinions on data protection issues, and advising federal bodies on privacy-by-design and privacy-by-default approaches. It also issues information to the public, prepares guidelines, and publishes annual reports on trends and developments in data protection and access to information.

Organization and status: the FDPIC is an independent federal office headed by the Federal Data Protection and Information Commissioner. It is funded through the federal budget and operates with a mandate to safeguard individuals’ personal data and to promote transparent governance. The office also engages in international cooperation on data protection standards and helps raise public awareness about privacy rights and responsibilities.