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7 of 18|History of Data Protection
video 15 min•GDPR Journey
GDPR Structure
A high-level overview of how the GDPR is organized.
🎯 Learning Objectives
- ▸ Understand the layout of the GDPR
- ▸ Differentiate between articles and recitals
- ▸ Navigate the law effectively
Chapters and Articles
The GDPR is divided into 11 chapters. Chapter 1 defines scope. Chapter 2 lays out the famous principles. Chapter 3 details the rights of the data subject. Chapter 4 covers the obligations of controllers and processors.
The Recitals
The 173 recitals act as explanatory notes. They explain the "why" behind the articles. Courts and regulators frequently refer to recitals to interpret ambiguities in the articles.
📖 Glossary
- Recitals
- Introductory explanations in EU law that provide context but are not formal legislative provisions.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- The GDPR has 11 chapters and 99 articles.
- Recitals provide context but are not legally binding on their own.
- The core obligations are found in Chapters 2, 3, and 4.
📚 Further Reading
- GDPR Structure — European Commission (2018)
Course Author
Shilpi Kulshrestha
Shilpi is a corporate lawyer with over a decade of experience in data protection, company law, and regulatory compliance. She has advised 50+ startups and enterprises on DPDPA readiness, privacy gover...