Introduction
With the vast technological developments taking place in recent years, it is important that the European Union becomes aware of the usefulness of these developments in order to inform the public and assist the relevant authorities in their efforts to contain the spread of COVID-19.(1)
The use of digital technologies and data can be a key tool to monitor the spread of COVID-19 in real time and can also empower citizens to take more effective social distancing measures.
Toolbox
On 8 April 2020 the European Commission issued Recommendation 2020/518 on establishing a common EU toolbox for the use of technology and data to combat the COVID-19 crisis, particularly with regard to mobile apps and the use of anonymised mobility data. The recommendation sets out a process to develop a common approach – a so-called 'toolbox' – in the European Union using the most innovative digital means to address the health crisis. The recommendation focuses primarily on: