Law Professor Moritz Hennemann Elected Germany's New Data Protection Commissioner

The Bundestag has elected Moritz Hennemann, a professor of civil law at the University of Freiburg, as Germany's new Federal Data Protection Commissioner. Hennemann, born in 1985, secured the position with 391 votes in favor, surpassing the required majority.

Hennemann, who also directs the Institute for Media and Information Law at the University of Freiburg, was nominated by the federal government and awaits formal appointment by the Federal President. He steps into the role previously held by Louisa Specht-Riemenschneider, who had announced her early resignation in March due to health reasons after being elected for a five-year term in 2024.

Specht-Riemenschneider expressed her satisfaction with the coalition's swift selection of a "superb successor." She intends to continue in her current capacity until September 30. The Federal Data Protection Commissioner oversees compliance with data protection regulations within federal administration and advises the Bundestag on these matters. The office also acts as a guardian of the fundamental right to informational self-determination, focusing on risks and regulations concerning the processing of personal data.

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I am pleased that the coalition has quickly found an excellent successor.