Europe’s regulatory compliance environment is complex and multifaceted, with various regulations addressing key areas in operational resilience, cybersecurity, technology and AI risk, payments, privacy, internal audit management, and ESG.
The Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) aims to harmonize rules on ICT risk management for the financial sector. Cybersecurity and privacy compliance is governed by the NIS2 Directive, and sector-specific regulations. The proposed AI Act will introduce requirements for high-risk AI systems. Payments compliance involves adhering to PSD2, SEPA, and TARGET2 standards. GDPR sets strict rules for personal data protection. Internal audit management ensures compliance with international standards like the IPPF. ESG reporting is becoming mandatory for large companies under the CSRD and other upcoming regulations.
Regulated markets face specific challenges. Financial services must navigate MiFID II, Solvency II, and AML rules. Pharma and healthcare prioritize patient safety and drug efficacy. Government and defence sectors focus on cybersecurity and procurement standards. Telecommunications, energy, automotive, aviation, and food industries each have their own regulatory frameworks covering safety, environmental impact, and consumer protection.
