EU bishops: Baptismal entry ruling could create ‘significant legal uncertainty’

The Secretariat of the Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences of the European Union warned Monday that a proposed ruling regarding baptismal registers could create significant legal uncertainty for Church authorities across Europe. The warning follows an opinion issued by Laila Medina, the Advocate General of the Court of Justice of the European Union, in a case involving the Diocese of Gent in Belgium.

In her non-binding opinion, Medina argued that individuals should generally have the right to have their personal data erased from baptismal registers unless the data controller can demonstrate a compelling legitimate reason to keep it. The Commission expressed concern that this orientation could affect ecclesiastical data controllers in all 27 EU member states. The group stated that baptismal registers are essential to the internal organization and mission of the Church.

The Court of Justice is expected to issue a final, binding judgment on the case, which could arrive in late 2026 or early 2027.